Report: Arsenal have been in touch with 48-year-old manager, could be available sooner than expected

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Arsenal have reportedly been in touch with Roma head coach Paulo Fonseca, journalist Tancredi Palmieri has told Tuttomercatoweb.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has split opinion over the past few months, with some fans stressing he needs more time and others not so sure he’s up to the job.

Speaking ahead of the Europa League semi-final first leg between Roma and Manchester United on Thursday, Palmieri gave his verdict on Fonseca’s future.

“Fonseca will bid farewell at the end of the year (season) and I know he’s been contacted by Arsenal,” he said.

Roma went on to lose 6-2 at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes and Edinson Cavani bagging a brace apiece, and Paul Pogba and Mason Greenwood also netting.

The visitors led at one point, with Lorenzo Pellegrini and Edin Dzeko netting on 15 and 33 minutes, but completely capitulated in the second half.

According to Calciomercato – via Football Italia – club owner Dan Friedkin is so furious, he could decide to sack Fonseca before the end of the season.

It is believed that Friedkin will meet Roma directors in Trigoria today to discuss the next steps, which could mean the 48-year-old being dismissed earlier than expected.

Crystal Palace are also thought to be in the running for Fonseca, with Roy Hodgson’s Selhurst Park future uncertain as his contract expires at the end of the season.

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A bold claim from Palmieri, given there hasn’t really been that much speculation in the media about Arsenal looking for a new manager.

That said, with Fonseca being expected to leave Roma at the end of the season – and perhaps sooner – could the Gunners really be thinking about making a chance in the dugout this summer?

It looks unlikely at this stage, but if Arsenal finish the season empty-handed and don’t qualify for Europe, questions could well be asked by the hierarchy.