Arsenal are apparently attempting to convince Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin that he is better suited to a move to the Emirates than to north London rivals Spurs, as reported by the Daily Star.

Schneiderlin is reportedly keen on a move away from St. Mary’s, with Spurs the most obvious destination. Tottenham are interested in bringing Schneiderlin to link up with Mauricio Pochettino again, who managed him last season at Southampton.

Arsene Wenger has apparently personally interjected, with the Gunners contacting Schneiderlin in order to stop him moving to their hated cross-city rivals.

Wenger supposedly discussed a move with Schneiderlin while he was working in Brazil as a pundit during this summer’s World Cup.

Arsenal’s French brigade are also involved in working on the move, apparently, with internationals Olivier Giroud and Laurent Koscielny trying to convince both Schneiderlin and Arsenal that a move would be for the best.

A potential spanner in the works is Southampton’s reluctance to sell, having seen a vast exodus of stars during this summer’s transfer window. They have already lost Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Luke Shaw and Calum Chambers.

Spurs also apparently possess an interest in Jay Rodriguez, who will be injured until shortly after the season stars.

Arsenal have reportedly enquired about the availability of Morgan Schneiderlin, asking Southampton whether he is available for transfer while negotiating their deal for highly rated young right-back Calum Chambers.

The defender had a medical with Arsenal yesterday, and a transfer fee has been agreed between the Premier League giants and the south coast club of around £16 million.

According to the BBC, however, the north London club are interested in making it a double swoop from down south by bringing in Schneiderlin.

With Arsene Wenger having essentially confirmed the arrival of goalkeeper David Ospina, and young defender Chambers having undergone a medical at the club, Schneiderlin would become the Gunners fifth signing of the summer. They have already officially confirmed the additions of Chilean international Alexis Sanchez and Newcastle United right-back Mathieu Debuchy as they look to challenge for the title.

Wenger also told an interview with ESPN yesterday that the club are now able to compete with their rivals financially in the transfer market, after years of paying off the debts from the Emirates Stadium