Arsenal are reportedly lining up Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe to replace Arsene Wenger at the Emirates in 2019, with the Gunners boss to eventually become Director of Football.

According to the Daily Star, Arsenal are keen to prepare for Wenger’s eventual exit by lining up a manager early to succeed him at the Emirates in the future. The Gunners are believed to be looking at Bournemouth’s Eddie Howe, a coach they’ve had on their wishlist for some time, although Howe is biding his time before making himself available to big clubs.

He should be ready for the step up in 2019 where Wenger is expected to move upstairs as a club director. Wenger has recently signed a two-year contract extension at Arsenal, days after his side sealed their third FA Cup in four seasons. He is keen to stay on at Arsenal and has no signs of quitting despite fan unrest following the Gunners’ failure to finish in the top-four of the Premier League.

Howe is viewed as an innovative young coach who has over-performed at Bournemouth. The Cherries have consolidated in the Premier League for the second consecutive season, finishing in an impressive ninth place, and players who were in League One at Bournemouth are now standout stars in the top-flight.

His men play an attractive brand of attacking football – scoring 55 goals – and their lofty finish despite a lower budget than other Premier League sides has led to plaudits for Howe.