Arsenal initiate search for Arsene Wenger's long term successor

Chairman Sir Chips Keswick and CEO Ivan Gazidis present Arsene Wenger with a gold cannon to commemorate his 1000th game as Arsenal manager

Arsenal have reportedly begun their exercise of finding a long term replacement for current manager Arsene Wenger, who, although has agreed in principle to sign a new deal, is most likely to remain at the club only for the short term.

However, the French manager, who is a cult figure at the club, could also call it a day at the end of the season, depending on how his team performs. The Fa Cup, which they are favorites to win, might eventually help Wenger make up his mind on contract renewal.

Wenger has been working with chief executive Ivan Gazidis and contract negotiator Dick Law on the club’s summer transfer strategy, which might suggest he is likely to stick around. He has also been heavily involved in changes to the training ground and the appointment of a new academy director, as well as the club’s summer training plans.

Most sources privy to the discussions say, that the 64-year old is most likely to accept a 2-year contract as opposed to the usual 3-years, which has prompted the club into swift action to vet potential candidates.

Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp and Everton tactician Roberto Martinez are rumoured to be prime targets, while Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers and in-house Steve Bould could be possibilities.

The Gunners host Swansea City at the Emirates in their next Premier League game, and will have to do without the services of defender Laurent Koscielny, who picked up a calf injury in their mauling against Chelsea last week.