Next Arsenal manager: Max Allegri emerges as No 1 target to replace Arsene Wenger

Negotiating with the Serie A champions could be tricky, however, although Allegri is said to be considering another challenge and is interested in the job

Arsenal are conscious of the need for a manager who “galvanises” the fanbase, with Juventus’ Max Allegri currently the top choice to replace Arsene Wenger.

The French great is now entering his last week as manager at the club, on a wave of good will after years of growing discord among the support.

The Arsenal hierarchy are highly aware of that, with majority shareholder Stan Kroenke said to be particularly attuned to attendance at the Emirates and how that looks on television, so want an appointment that creates excitement around the club.

That would appear to rule out some of the more esoteric choices to succeed Wenger, even though some at the club feel they should do what they did with their legendary manager in 1996 and opt for a promising but lesser known name.

Arsenal admire Hoffenheim boss Julian Nagelsmann, although he is expected to stay at the Bundesliga club for another year.

With the club hierarchy thereby unwilling to go for anyone less tested, Allegri would appear the perfect fit.

The Italian has won three Italian titles in a row and is on the brink of a fourth, but has also taken Juve to two Champions League finals.

Negotiating with the Serie A champions could be tricky, however, although Allegri is said to be considering another challenge and is interested in the job.

Allegri is said to be interested in the job (AFP)

Arsenal have also looked at former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, who knows Head of Football Relations Raul Sanllehi, although the Spaniard’s wage demands are exceptionally high at around £15m a year.