From France: Arsenal have ‘already begun’ negotiations with ‘priority’ manager – Compensation payable

There were countless claims about Unai Emery’s successor even before he left Arsenal, and that’s only going to increase now.

One of the men thought to be in the picture is Nuno Espirito Santo, who has done such a good job with Wolves. Up until Wednesday evening there was nothing independent in the Portuguese media about a possible move to the Gunners, although that may change going forward.

Mohamed Bouhafsi, a well known journalist for France’s RMC, reports on Friday that Arsenal have ‘already begun’ talks with the Wolves manager’s entourage. That would presumably be Gestifute, Jorge Mendes’ agency.

Nuno was Mendes’ first client back when the manager was a goalkeeper, and the pair maintain a close relationship.

Should the information come from a Mendes source, and it’s not clear if it does, then it would be worrying news for Wolves fans.

It’s stated, inevitably, that Arsenal would have to pay compensation to Wolves. Nuno is said to be ‘very interested’ and is described as the London club’s ‘priority’ target.