Friday 24 March 2017 16:34, UK
Paul Merson believes Arsene Wenger will stay at Arsenal for another year, but has backed former team-mate Patrick Vieira to succeed him at the Emirates.
Wenger is in the midst of the most turbulent spell of his 20-year stint in north London, with perennial failings on the pitch plunging his position into doubt.
The Frenchman claims to have already reached a decision over his future, though, a decision Merson believes will result in him signing the contract extension reportedly on the table.
While an extension would anger sections of the Arsenal support, Merson feels they could be appeased if former Gunners captain Vieira returned to the club in a managerial capacity.
"My instincts tell me he's going to sign and he's waiting for a big win and he'll sign for another year," the Sky Sports pundit said.
"I wouldn't be surprised if he stays a year and then Patrick Vieira comes in."
My instincts tell me Wenger is going to sign for another year. I wouldn't be surprised if he stays a year and then Patrick Vieira comes in.
Asked whether Vieira was heir-apparent, he added: "Yes. He's learning his trade over at New York City, he's been at Man City, and he brings a winning mentality, he won't take any rubbish.
"Arsenal look too nice at the moment. I think that could happen and the fans would love that.
"The players don't seem like they're working that hard for the manager at the moment, which is sad.
"Whoever comes in it's going to be a step-up - it's a big, big football club but I don't see a problem.
"He's a legend, which gives you some leeway. I just think he'll get his team playing the way he played the game, which is what they need at the moment."
Arsenal have only been able to beat Sutton United and Lincoln City in their last six games in all competitions, a run which has seen then crash out of the Champions League and slip to sixth in the Premier League.
With the Gunners hosting top-four rivals Manchester City once the international break ends, Merson was adamant there was no room for manoeuvre, adding: "They need to win this game.
"When are Arsenal out of the top four at this stage? Usually they're a shoo-in. It's a must-win game."
Watch Arsenal v Man City live on Nissan Super Sunday on April 2. Coverage starts at 3.30pm, Sky Sports 1 HD
