Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger wanted by Lyon as new manager after struggling Ligue 1 side sack Sylvinho

ARSENE WENGER is being lined up for a sensational return to management with Lyon after the struggling Ligue 1 side sacked Sylvinho.

The ex-Arsenal boss has been out of management since leaving the Emirates around 18-months ago following more than two decades in charge.

He has been looking to get back into football ever since, and has turned down numerous job offers from around Europe.

And , Lyon want him to take over after sacking their manager following a shocking start to the campaign.

It is understood the French side are also looking at bringing in ex-Manchester United defender Laurent Blanc.

President Jean-Michel Aulas decided to axe Sylvinho after a 1-0 loss at bitter rivals Saint-Etienne at the weekend.

That came after a run of just one win in nine matches in all competitions, a 2-0 victory in the Champions League at RB Leipzig.

The Brazilian only took the job back in May, but came under increased fan pressure following the poor start.

It is not known whether Wenger is taking over the role, but he has spoken about his urge to get back into the game following his Gunners exit.

The Arsenal legend has also been linked with role at Fifa.

Asked about the Fifa role on beIN Sports, Wenger raised the prospect of returning to management instead: "I just want to share what I’ve learned and give it back to the game in a different way.

"I am not sure I will stop coaching as well. The devil is still in there but I have to see, do I like it? Can I be efficient?"

Assistant coach Gerald Baticle will lead the Lyon team for the next few days, as the search for a replacement boss begins.

Lyon are already down in 14th position in Ligue 1, and only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.

They are 12 points behind PSG and will struggle to make the Champions League spots if something is not done soon.