Thomas Tuchel ‘agrees to replace Arsene Wenger at Arsenal’

Tuchel was apparently set to join Bayern Munich, but a report in Sport Bild said he had rejected the chance to succeed Jupp Heynckes in favour of a move abroad.

Kicker then revealed the new destination was Arsenal, adding that the 44-year-old had already agreed a deal to step into the Emirates dugout and bring an end to Wenger’s 22-year reign in north London.

Tuchel led Dortmund to the German Cup in 2017, but was dismissed three days later amid tensions with chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke.

There were doubts about the story in some quarters, however German legend Lothar Matthaus said that he was aware of talks between the club and Tuchel, after playing a match between former Liverpool and Bayern players on Saturday, saying:

"I think Thomas Tuchel can be the favourite, [the] ex-coach from Borussia Dortmund, but I know he's in touch with Arsenal and nobody knows what happens behind the doors."

While a deal seems sensible from a tactical standpoint – Tuchel’s high pressing and sharp, quick passing should be well-received by Gunners fans – it would stir up talk of a rift between the German and Sven Mislintat, his chief scout at Dortmund now at Arsenal.

The pair clashed over a move for Spanish midfielder Oliver Torres, with Tuchel rejecting his advisor’s plea to pursue the transfer as their relationship deteriorated.

Tuchel also imposed a training ground ban on Mislintat, who he said was meddling unnecessarily with his players’ day-to-day affairs.

Mislintat told Reviersport after joining Arsenal in November: "The ban initiated by the former coach to enter the training grounds and the clear instruction to keep me away from the inner circle of players and the staff, including many friends with whom I have worked closely for years, has had a decisive impact on my thinking."

However, Kicker say Mislintat has informed the Arsenal hierarchy that he will "always submit to club interests and do his work loyally".

Johannes Mittermeier (Eurosport Germany): When Kicker claim Tuchel is about to join Arsenal, it’s very offensive wording given the conservative attitude they usually have. So I think we’re allowed to look forward to Tuchel coaching Arsenal. Yesterday there were reports – also reliable – that Tuchel wouldn’t take over at Bayern Munich because he’ll go abroad. That’s exactly what it looks like is going to happen…