Arsenal technical director Edu has reportedly pinpointed former midfielder Patrick Vieira to become the club's next permanent manager.

The Gunners are on an extensive search to locate a new permanent boss following the sacking of Unai Emery last month.

Reports have claimed that Vieira is a frontrunner to assume the role at the Emirates, having spent nine years with the North London club.

According to The Times, Edu, who played alongside Vieira at Arsenal for four years, views the Frenchman as an ideal candidate for the position.

Vieira is currently in charge of Ligue 1 side Nice, guiding the club to seventh in the table last season.

Several sources have speculated that Arsenal, amid fears of being financially unable to secure an elite manager, will look to make an in-house appointment, with Mikel Arteta also mentioned as a possibility.