Arsene Wenger replacement: Arsenal board split on new manager with former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique and club legend Patrick Vieira considered

ARSENAL chiefs are reportedly split on who should replace Arsene Wenger – with Luis Enrique a leading candidate for the job.

Gunners boss Wenger announced this morning that he would leave the club at the end of the season.

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Chief executive Ivan Gazidis, head of football relations Raul Sanllehi and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat are all leaning towards different candidates.

Club legend Patrick Vieira, 41, has emerged as a contender for the role and has two years experience as a frontline boss after taking over MLS side New York City in 2016.

He is also believed to be Wenger's own preference to take over at the club.

And the report that Sanllehi would like to put former Barcelona colleague Enrique in charge, but that his wage demands – which are in excess of £10million a year – could put off Arsenal and fellow suitors Chelsea.

Former Dortmund spotter Mislintat is said to be keen on raiding Germany to find the Gunners' next manager.

Mislintat was pictured in the stands for Schalke's 2-0 win over Dortmund on Sunday, with victorious boss Domenico Tedesco under the microscope.

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Hoffenheim manager Julian Nagelsmann, 30 and two years younger than Tedesco, is also in the Mislintat's sights.

Both are considered among the best young coaches in Europe, with Manchester City coach Mikel Arteta also in that bracket.

The ex-Gunners midfielder has assisted Pep Guardiola side in their title-winning season and is said to be another rated by fellow Spaniard Sanllehi.

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In his statement, the Gunners boss says: “After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season.

“I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years.

“I managed the club with full commitment and integrity.

“I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special.

“I urge our fans to stand behind the team to finish on a high.

“To all the Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club.
"My love and support for ever.”