Sevilla manager, Jorge Sampaoli, has apparently delayed talks over a new contract with the La Liga team, leading to more speculation that he could be taking over either Arsenal or Barcelona.

The former Chile coach has become incredibly sought after following his success with Sevilla and with Arsene Wenger reportedly edging towards the exit, Sampaoli has been linked with a move to north London.

Now, The Sun are reporting that the 56-year-old has delayed negotiations with the Spanish club, claiming that he will discuss his future once the season is over, putting Arsenal (and Barca) on ‘red alert’.

“We appreciate that they are trying to renew our contracts but to do that while we are in the present is very difficult,” he said.

“We only want to live in the moment.

“The way we work is like this and there are many reasons to appreciate the present.

“This is the most important game for Sevilla, we want to be one of the best eight teams in Europe and that’s more important than thinking about the future.”

Sampaoli’s experience with Chile could entice Alexis Sanchez to stay at Arsenal. However, it’s highly unlikely that Arsenal would base their future manager on just one player who may not even be staying.

Should Arsene Wenger leave at the end of the season once his contract expires and if he does, who should replace him. Is Sampaoli the right man for the job?

On Wednesday night, Sevilla beat Leicester City 2-1 with a late Jamie Vardy goal the Foxes’ only consolation.

“We were very superior in the game, with a dozen clear chances but we did not dig the gap as much as we wanted and they eventually scored,” Sampaoli said post-match, report L’Equipe.

“We have to wait for the return leg, which will be as difficult as tonight, but I think my team deserved better.

“The opponent produces this kind of football, where he takes advantage of the slightest opportunity. We will go there (to Leicester) to win the match and get the qualification. To create as many opportunities against such an is not easy and my team has succeeded. Alas, we did not have the chance to score more. Football is like that.”

Other managers linked with the Arsenal job include Eddie Howe, who was the bookies’ favourite until recently; Juventus’ Max Allergi, who is now the bookies’ favourite, and Diego Simeone, who reduced his contract with Atletico Madrid from 2020 to 2018 last year.

Wenger has confirmed that he will announce his decision in March/April.