Morgan Schneiderlin has been pivotal in Southampton’s bid to seal a Champions League ticket next season forming a solid partnership in the middle of the park with Victor Wanyama and his accomplishments has in turn made European elites fight for his signature.

Arsenal have been tracking the 25-year-old for quite some time now, but Southampton have stood firm in their decision not to let the French international leave the Hampshire based football club. However, Ronald Koeman may be forced to see his stalwart leave the club in the summer.

According to Spanish reports, Barcelona are weighing up a move for the defensive midfielder and are adamant to lure the defensive midfielder to Camp Nou to further equip the well-equipped midfield. The Catalan club are believed to be ready to pay up to £22 million for his services.

However, the same news outlet claim that Arsenal are set to fight off Barcelona interests to make sure the Frenchman plays in England next season, with compatriots – Olivier Giroud, Mathieu Debuchy and Laurent Koscielny playing alongside him.

Arsene Wenger may have to be at their negotiating best to bring down Morgan Schneiderlin to Emirates Stadium as Ronald Koeman and Southampton may not want to strengthen their fellow competitors by offering them one of their best players. However, financial power of the north London club may ensure he dons the Arsenal shirt next season.