Morgan Schneiderlin opts for Man United or Arsenal over Tottenham, Liverpool

The French midfielder was linked with a move away from St. Mary’s last summer, with Liverpool and Tottenham reportedly interested in securing his signature, though he opted to stay on the south coast and helped the Saints to a seventh-place finish this season.

However, it appears that the 25-year-old may now get his wish of joining a bigger club, though he is set to snub both Tottenham and Liverpool for the chance of joining a team that will be playing in the Champions League next season.

Schneiderlin told RMC: "Yes, I think my decision is made.

"The goal is to stay in England, it is a championship that I like and where I have a lot of fun.

"If I leave Southampton it is for a club that plays better than the Europa League.

"The Champions League is my goal. If I leave Southampton it will be for a club in the Champions League."

Manchester United have also been linked with the Frenchman, but, according to reports, Arsenal are leading the chase for his signature.

While Schneiderlin edges towards the exit, the fate of Artur Boruc and Jos Hooiveld has been sealed after both were released at the end of their contracts.

The pair, who ended last season on loan at Bournemouth and Millwall respectively, played a key part in Saints' rise to the Premier League and are amongst six professionals not having their contracts extended.