Arsenal chiefs insist they have been speaking with former PSG coach Unai Emery for several weeks.

The Mirror says Manchester City coach Mikel Arteta, 36, had been in pole position to get the job until the club's hierarchy went for ex-Sevilla boss Emery at the 11th hour.

Arsenal had prepared to offer Arteta a three year deal worth £4m-a-year with a one year break clause and the Spaniard was keen to take the job.

Arsenal insist that it is not a case of last minute cold feet and that they wanted to speak to all of the candidates before making an appointment.

They also insist that Emery has been spoken to a fortnight ago although the ex-Sevilla boss was quoted last week insisting that there had been no contact from Arsenal. Emery's English was believed to be a major obstacle but Arsenal insist he can speak the language.