Arsene Wenger wants Mikel Arteta to replace him but Arsenal face competition from Everton
The 35-year-old could see a return to one of his former clubs after impressing as assistant coach at Manchester City
MIKEL ARTETA could return to one of his former clubs as the new manager, according to reports.
The Spaniard is being talked of at the Emirates to replace Arsene Wenger but they could face a big battle with Everton.
The 35-year-old assistant coach in Pep Guardiola's successful Manchester City management team has drawn huge interest from the two struggling sides, according to .
Arsenal could look to make their first managerial change in 22 years in the summer as the Gunners are on course to record their worst season under Wenger.
Arteta's work at the Etihad in his first coaching position following his playing career has caught the attention of the Arsenal hierarchy.
Josh Kroenke - son of major shareholder Stan Kroenke - is having a greater say in the boardroom and favours bringing in an ex-Arsenal player as the next boss.
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Wenger is also thought to be on board with the idea - especially if it means the Frenchman staying on in a consultancy role.
The pair are already well acquainted having spent five seasons together in North London before Arteta retired in 2016.
But Arsenal's plans could be derailed if Everton cave in to pressure from many Goodison fans and replace Sam Allardyce.
Allardyce has only been in charge since November after taking over from Ronald Koeman but has yet to win over the Toffees' faithful.
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If Everton decide to make a change in the dugout then Bill Kenwright will try to persuade owner Farhad Moshiri to go for Artera - who spent the biggest proportion of his career with the Blues.
Although his experience is lacking, Guardiola has backed Arteta to prove himself as a bright young head coach given the opportunity.