Patrick Vieira has received no approach from Arsenal to become Arsene Wenger's replacement

Patrick Vieira has not been approached by Arsenal to date, as they continue their search for Arsene Wenger’s replacement, Sky Sports News understands.

The former Arsenal midfielder, now manager of MLS side New York City, has been reported as a candidate for the vacancy and a return to the club where he spent nine successful years.

Last week, the 41-year old said he was "flattered" to be linked and that he is "ready to manage any team in Europe" but admits it would be "difficult" to become Arsenal's new boss.

Arsene Wenger and Patrick Vieira with the Premier League title in 2004

New York City are top of the MLS Eastern Conference and Wenger said last month, following his decision to step down as manager after 22-years with the club, he believed Vieira has the "potential" to take over at the Emirates Stadium.

Vieira's contract at the MLS club expires in November and the former France international, who was brought to Arsenal by Wenger in 1996, is among a number of managers touted as a potential replacement along with former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, RB Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick and Carlo Ancelotti.

Mikel Arteta is understood to be backed by Arsenal chief Ivan Gazidis as a potential replacement

The 41-year-old is not the only former Arsenal player believed to be under consideration with Manchester City assistant coach Mikel Arteta, thought to be highly thought of by Arsenal's chief executive Ivan Gazidis.

Arsenal, who will definitely finish outside the top four for the second season running, meet Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final on Thursday, knowing winning the trophy is their only route back into the Champions League next season.