Max Allegri in line to replace Arsene Wenger?

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has reportedly told his close friends that he would succeed Arsene Wenger at Arsenal next season.

The Gunners are expected to recruit a new head coach in the summer with Wenger likely to end his 21-year association following yet another failure in their Premier League challenge.

According to Calciomercato, the Italian was having a dinner with his pals where he let slip that he will takeover the reigns at the Emirates.

Allegri, who is on course to lift his third straight Scudetto with Juventus this term, has previously dismissed claims that he could leave Turin in the summer

"I won't deny or confirm anything," he told reporters. "I am in sync with the club, now we have to focus on winning.

"At this time of the season, the media always says I'm leaving, even when things are going really well."

In spite of this, speculation continues to rise over the future of Allegri, who is said to be also a target to replace the out-of-contract Luis Enrique at Barcelona.

Arsenal's hierarchy are currently hopeful of extending Wenger's stay by a couple of seasons, and his commitment may well end talks over a potential successor.