Arsenal are hoping Arsene Wenger signs a contract extension beyond next season.

The Frenchman, 66, is under contract with the Gunners until the summer of 2017 and is currently being heavily linked with the England job for 12 months down the track.

The Football Association are believed to be keen on Wenger and want him to step into the role recently departed by Roy Hodgson when his time at the Emirates Stadium comes to an end at the completion of the 2016/17 campaign.

However, the Daily Mail is reporting that Gunners chiefs are wanting to open discussions regarding an extension once the new season begins.

If the North Londoners begin the term positively, it is expected that owner Stan Kroenke will give the green light for a new deal which would likely ward off any further interest from the FA.