Plenty of clubs have been linked with Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, and Arsenal could get him if they act fast in the transfer window.

Manager Ronald Koeman has left the door open for Schneiderlin to leave Southampton, who have overachieved this season but look set to miss out on Champions League football.

“It will be hard when there is real interest in the player. It is up to the player what he likes to do.

“It is very hard but normally if we have the season like we have so far there will be interest in the players of Southampton.”

Koeman accepts that the interest will go both ways, with his player’s head likely to be turned if offers do come in from bigger clubs.

“If he gets a big offer from a big team, there is always interest for the player and I understand that,” said the Dutchman,

“That is normal, we know our level and that is a compliment for the players and the club.”

Southampton’s second impressive season in a row is a credit to Koeman, but the French midfielder is one of the players likely to want something bigger in the near future.

Last year Schneiderlin’s move to Tottenham was blocked by the south-coast club, and he has recently reiterated his desire to move onto bigger things, with quotes published in French publication L’Equipe.

“In August, I wanted to take a move but the club had lost too many players to agree to sell me,” said the French international midfielder.

“Since then I have had discussions with the leaders and I want to play at the highest level: it is important at 25 years old to finally know the Champions League.

“Given that, late in the season, Southampton may qualify for the Champions League and I can stay, who knows. I have no desire to be in front of my TV on Tuesday and Wednesday.”

Since then Southampton have fallen away from the chase for the top four, as have Spurs.

Those places look all but settled with Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester United set to join Arsenal in the Champions League next season.

Manchester City need homegrown players as well as big rebuild, and their local rivals Man United also need midfield reinforcements.

With reported interest also from Chelsea, where José Mourinho doesn’t seem to trust midfielders Ramires and John Obi Mikel, Arsenal will face stiff competition if they chase Schneiderlin.