Arsenal and Man United to battle it out for outbound Schneiderlin

Morgan Schneiderlin has claimed that he is close to leaving Southampton with Arsenal and Manchester United leading the race to get his signature.

The 25-year old Frenchman is said to have rejected a new contract worth £60,000 a week in order to plot his exit from St. Mary’s. Schneiderlin has expressed his desire to play in the Champions League someday and is seemingly confident that the day is right around the corner.

“The negotiations are ongoing and should be completed in the coming days.” Schneiderlin told France Bleu Alsace radio station. “Hopefully before the resumption of [Southampton’s pre-season] training next week.”

The Saints have made it clear that they are willing to make a deal but only for the right price. With 2-years remaining on the French international’s contract, the club is adamant to not let go of their star player for cheap but an offer near the £24million mark will be enough to satisfy all parties.

The protracted transfer saga saw the same player almost manoeuvre a move to Tottenham only to be left distraught as Southampton were not willing to negotiate at that time. Schneiderlin then had controversially tweeted “6 years of an amazing journey #saintsfc DESTROYED in 1 hour.” He agreed to stay at the club for another season and the club promised to let him go if a Champions League club came looking.

The possibility of him leaving for either Arsenal or Manchester United is the same as they both have Champions League football to offer. A move to Tottenham is not on the cards as of now but if both Arsenal and the Red Devils fail to make a deal, a move elsewhere could be a strong possibility.

Would a deal materialize? Will he finally leave for pastures new? Have your say below.