Arsenal chiefs want Mikel Arteta as next manager?

Arsenal chiefs have reportedly pinpointed former midfielder Mikel Arteta as the number one candidate to become the club's next permanent manager.

The North London club has commenced its search for a new boss following their decision to sack Unai Emery last Friday.

Arteta, currently working as Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City, has been mentioned as a target alongside Brendan Rodgers, Carlo Ancelotti and Massimiliano Allegri.

According to The Mirror, Arsenal's hierarchy has decided that Arteta, who spent five years at the Emirates, would serve as the best option.

The Spaniard came very close to becoming the club's successor to Arsene Wenger, only for Ivan Gazidis to favour the more proven Emery.

Guardiola has recently insisted that he expected Arteta to remain as his number two at the Etihad until the end of the season at least.