Arsenal ‘look to RB Leipzig boss as long-term Wenger replacement’

Arsenal have put RB Leipzig coach Ralph Hasenhuttl at the top of their shortlist to replace Arsene Wenger, according to reports on Wednesday.

Wenger, 67, is out of contract at the end of the season, and despite reports he is set to sign a new deal, there’s yet to be an agreement reached between the parties.

It therefore comes as no surprise to see Arsenal line up a shortlist of possible successors to Wenger should a parting of ways occur in the summer – and

Hasenhuttl is said to have been identified as a target along with Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe.

The 49-year-old Hasenhuttl, who has drawn comparisons with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, was appointed manager of Leipzig in the summer and has taken to them to the top of the Bundesliga on the back of a 12-game unbeaten start on their debut top-flight campaign.

However, Arsenal are said to have had him on their radar since his time as manager of Ingolstadt.

They were struggling for survival in the German second division when Hasenhuttl took charge in 2013 but the Austrian coach went on to lead them to safety before impressively achieving promotion the following season.

Arsenal chiefs have reportedly been impressed by his tactical intelligence and track record with developing young talent.

They may however face a battle to land their man, with Hasenhuttl also said to likely be a target for a number of other clubs, with Bayern Munich among those also said to be casting an eye on him.

According to The Sun, Arsenal would want Hasenhuttl in a head coach role, with Wenger possibly moving upstairs to become director of football.