Gunners go for top ten

ARSENAL could interview as many as TEN candidates before appointing a manager.

Former captain Patrick Vieira is emerging as a serious contender despite a difficult season at Nice.

They have started interviewing, with former Valencia boss Marcelino among the first to be spoken to.

Manchester City coach Mikel Arteta is also high on Arsenal’s hit-list while Napoli boss Carlo Ancelotti could soon become available amid a difficult time in Italy.

They might have to wait until the summer before being able to get former Spurs boss Maurico Pochettino.

Ex-Juventus boss Max Allegri is unlikely to be a serious candidate as

Arsenal want someone who speaks good English.

It is believed they have sounded out Bordeaux’s former Swansea boss Paulo Sousa and Belgium boss Roberto Martinez. Arsenal are hoping Freddie Ljungberg will be able to keep the seat warm while the search goes on. Head of football Raul Sanllehi, technical director Edu, managing director Vinai Venkatesham and contracts negotiator Huss Fahmy will head up the process.

They will take their recommended candidate to Arsenal director Josh Kroenke, son of owner Stan and they will give it the green light.