Arsenal ditch big-name candidate as they edge closer to naming next boss by drawing up new short-list

Arsene Wenger (L) and Patrick Vieira (R). [Photo/ Courtesy]

Arsenal have slashed their managerial shortlist — and Patrick Vieira has made the cut.

They have also got Max Allegri and Mikel Arteta among the candidates to succeed Arsene Wenger this summer as they look to reduce the options to five names they will present to majority shareholder Stan Kroenke.

Former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique appears to be out of the running because of his wage demands, and also with the Gunners as keen on appointing a young head coach as they are to turn to a big name.

Arsenal want to make an appointment before the World Cup kicks off on June 14, but are also acutely aware of the distraction of the finals in Russia, a shorter transfer window that closes on August 9 and their pre-season plans, which mean that in an ideal world it would be done quicker.

Former Arsenal captain Vieira — now in charge of Major League Soccer's New York City — would be a popular choice among the fans, while Manchester City coach Arteta, who also wore the armband for the club, has big support within the Emirates hierarchy.

Luis Enrique is out of the list. [Photo/Courtesy]

Juventus boss Allegri has indicated his interest, but the Italian club — set to win their seventh consecutive Serie A title and fourth in a row under him — also want to keep him and are prepared to offer a new contract.

Germany coach Joachim Low has been a contender post-Russia 2018, while Monaco’s Leonardo Jardim is also well thought of.

Hoffenheim's Julian Nagelsmann has hinted he may want to stay in Germany for another year.

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis is on board with a young appointment, while the Kroenkes also had big success in the NFL last season by naming Sean McVay as the Los Angeles Rams' head coach when he was just 30.

After over a decade of mediocrity, the Rams won 11 of 16 games under McVay to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2004.

They are likely to present a big name option as well as a younger coach to the Kroenkes - majority shareholder Stan’s son, Josh, is taking a hands-on role - to succeed 68-year-old Wenger.