Arsenal have made contact with former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique over the possibility of replacing Arsene Wenger at the end of the season, reports The Independent.
It was announced on Friday that Wenger will step down at the end of the season, and the Gunners have tentatively approached Luis Enrique, who is currently on sabbatical, over the possibility of taking the post this summer.
However, it is understood the 47-year-old has demanded a salary on a par with Wenger, leaving doubts over his suitability. Patrick Vieira and Mikel Arteta are also under consideration.
Only an unexpected glitch in negotiations, which are well advanced, can prevent now the appointment of the 47-year-old winner of countless honours as a creative forward with Barcelona and Real Madrid and subsequently as manager of the Catalan giants.
The approach has been made by Arsenal’s new director of football relations Raul Sanllehi, who forged a close relationship with Enrique at Barcelona.
The two have dined together at an exclusive London club recently and were in deep discussion.
The Arsenal hierarchy, although keen to give Wenger the courteous and respectful grand send-off which he so richly deserves, have been focusing on Enrique as they have watched Pep Guardiola bring the Barcelona effect to Manchester City.
If the appointment goes through, it will also put Arsenal very much in pole position to sign Lionel Messi if the Argentina superstar ever decides to move to the Premier League.
Enrique has been out of a job since leaving as Barcelona boss last year. He brought success to Barcelona over a three-year period. He won a total of nine trophies, including two La Liga titles and one Champions League.