Arsenal transfer news: James Milner move hinges on demand for four-year deal

Manchester City midfielder out of contract this summer

James Milner is out of contract at the end of the season (Getty Images)

Arsenal will have to offer James Milner a four-year deal if they want to turn the player's interest in the Emirates into an actual transfer.

According to reports, the England midfielder has made the Gunners his preferred destination. However, his arrival will only happen if certain conditions are met.

He will be out of contract this summer and with Manchester City unable to provide the guarantees he is seeking with regards to playing time, contract length and what position he will play, the signing of a new deal at the Etihad appears unlikely, if not impossible.

That's made the 29-year-old, who City paid £26m for in 2010, one of the most coveted players this summer and there is no shortage of interest.

According to The Sun, Milner has already made up his mind where he wants to go - picking the Gunners. But if Arsene Wenger is to welcome the former Aston Villa player on board, he will have to offer Milner a four-year deal, a year longer than what Manchester City have put on the table.

If Arsenal can meet the stipulations Milner is after and clinch his signature, Liverpool will be among those particularly frustrated having also been among those wanting to sign the utility player.