Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has revealed that he's absolutely desperate to play Champions League football next season, rather that watching big matches on the television in midweek.
Schneiderlin has been heavily linked with Arsenal among others over the last 12 months, but despite making it clear he wanted to move on last summer remains a key player in a Saints side that continues to surprise many by battling for European qualification this season.
It looks like Saints will have to finish in the top four against all the odds to keep their French international though, with Schneiderlin insisting he's made the time is right to test himself on Europe's biggest stage.
WENGER WILL READ COMMENTS WITH INTEREST
In an interview with L'Equipe on his future Schneiderlin was asked if his price tag has rocketed in recent times, replying: "It is not for me to set the prices. But it is a reality. In August, I wanted to take a move but the club had lost too many players to agree to sell me.
"Since then I have had discussions with the leaders and I want to play at the highest level: it is important at twenty-five years to finally know the Champions League. Given that, late in the season, Southampton may qualify for the CL and I can stay, who knows. Anyway, I have no desire to be in front of my TV on Tuesday and Wednesday."
So is he coming ?
Schneiderlin has been heavily linked with Arsenal among others over the last 12 months, but despite making it clear he wanted to move on last summer remains a key player in a Saints side that continues to surprise many by battling for European qualification this season.
It looks like Saints will have to finish in the top four against all the odds to keep their French international though, with Schneiderlin insisting he's made the time is right to test himself on Europe's biggest stage.
WENGER WILL READ COMMENTS WITH INTEREST
In an interview with L'Equipe on his future Schneiderlin was asked if his price tag has rocketed in recent times, replying: "It is not for me to set the prices. But it is a reality. In August, I wanted to take a move but the club had lost too many players to agree to sell me.
"Since then I have had discussions with the leaders and I want to play at the highest level: it is important at twenty-five years to finally know the Champions League. Given that, late in the season, Southampton may qualify for the CL and I can stay, who knows. Anyway, I have no desire to be in front of my TV on Tuesday and Wednesday."
So is he coming ?
ARSENAL AND UNITED HAVE TO CONSIDER BID
Schneiderlin's inclusion in the France squad for a marquee friendly against Brazil is an indication of how far the former League One standout has come over the last five years, which is why a desire to play Champions League football is understandable.
The tight race to finish in the top four between now and May could have a massive impact on his long-term future. Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur would both surely love to take a player of Schneiderlin's quality this summer, but must get the job done in the Premier League before planning summer transfer activity.
Arsenal in particular could definitely do with a combative, enforcer like Schniederlin who has the ability to both protect the back four and play with confidence higher up the pitch, although United also look short of a similar player to complement Michael Carrick.
Saints are now six points off the top four and despite a superb campaign are likely to just fall short of the top four, which means Schneiderlin is considering his future and its time for potential suitors to do the same.
Arsenal fans, is it finally time for Wenger to sign Schneiderlin this summer? Let us know by having your say in the comment box below!
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