Arsenal sound out Max Allegri about succeeding Unai Emery as next manager

The meeting took place at the same time as speculation over Arsenal’s potential interest in Jose Mourinho, who has since gone on to take over at rivals Tottenham

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Arsenal met with Massimiliano Allegri’s intermediaries three weeks ago about the possibility of the Italian succeeding Unai Emery, with the former Juventus manager one of the leading candidates for the job.

Allegri is considered the most viable ‘proven’ option at this stage, while his appointment could be completed quickly with the six-time Serie A winner currently unattached to any club.

The meeting took place at the same time as speculation over Arsenal’s potential interest in Jose Mourinho, which The Independent has been told was very real – despite the club’s public denial.

Allegri has been taking English lessons with a move to the Premier League mooted throughout his final season in Turin, which would ease the language barrier situation which nagged during Emery’s 18 months in charge.

There is, however, a feeling that the Manchester United job, one which could soon become available too, is also of interest to the 52-year-old.

Mikel Arteta and Nuno Espirito Santo are the two other leading candidates for the role after Emery was sacked on Friday morning following the club’s 2-1 defeat by Frankfurt in the Europa League.

Assistant coach Freddie Ljungberg will take temporary charge of the side starting with the trip to Norwich on Sunday.