Arsenal are believed to have earmarked Eddie Howe as a long-term replacement for Arsene Wenger.

The Daily Star reports that Gunners chiefs see the Bournemouth boss as the perfect coach to step into the enormous shoes of Wenger when he decides to end his time at the Emirates Stadium.

It is believed that Howe, 38, has impressed the North London club during this tenure on the south coast which saw the Cherries remain in the Premier League in their debut campaign.

Arsenal are beginning to prepare for life after Frenchman Wenger and the way Bournemouth play under Howe has put the talented young manager in a strong position to become the 66-year-old's successor.

Wenger has been Arsenal boss since 1996 and is entering the final 12 months of his current contract.