Arsene Wenger's side finished fourth in the Premier League table Photo: Back Page Images

Marseille are interested in signing Arsenal striker Gervinho on loan, according to the club’s assistant manager.

The Ivory Coast international has struggled to hold down a regular starting spot in Arsene Wenger’s first-team, with Olivier Giroud, Lukas Podolski and Theo Walcott preferred to the forward.

The 26-year-old scored five goals in just 12 Premier League starts this season, inevitably leading to reports the former Lille man could be set to depart the north London side in the summer.

And Franck Passis revealed l’OM, who finished as runners-up behind Paris Saint-Germain last season, feel the African would fit into the club’s vision moving forward.

“This is a profile that interests us,” said assistant manager Passi.

“We want wide players, with dribbling, passing and scoring ability, and Gervinho fits this profile.”

Gervinho recently expressed his desire to see out his current Gunners contract amid speculation linking him with a switch to Galatasaray.

“I have a contract until 2015 with Arsenal and I intend to honour it,” said Gervinho.

“There is always speculation in the papers, but I am looking forward to a good holiday and to come back to Arsenal.

“I want to win my place in the starting line-up week in, week out.”

Gervinho has scored 11 goals and made 13 assists in 63 Premier League appearances after completing a reported £10.8m move to the Gunners from Lille in July 2011.