Arsenal make Mikel Arteta contract decision with four European giants interested in the Gunners boss

Arsenal have put contract talks with boss Mikel Arteta on hold as the Gunners pour all their focus into the Premier League title race.

Arteta has led Arsenal to the top of the table after an astonishing season in north London, but recent results have plunged their hopes of silverware into serious doubt.

They looked in pole position to lift their first domestic title in almost 20 years, but consecutive 2-2 draws against Liverpool and West Ham have left the door open for second-placed Manchester City.

If they can secure three points against Southampton on Friday evening, all eyes will be on the Etihad in just over a week's time, in what is likely to be a title-defining contest.

And while Gunners fans will be fully focused on the task ahead, an array of clubs are reportedly plotting a swoop for the man that got them there.

Which clubs are interested in Arteta?

Should Arteta win the Premier League in just his second full season in charge at the Emirates, the Spaniard's stock will be higher than ever.

While the 41-year-old is still yet to extend his contract, with his current deal due to expire in the summer of 2023.

The Sun claim that Paris Saint-Germain are among the clubs monitoring Arteta's situation, following another disappointing Champions League campaign.

Current manager Christophe Galtier is expected to part company with the Ligue 1 giants, paving the way for a fresh face at the Stade de France.

The report also states that both Manchester City and Barcelona have a long-standing interest in the Arsenal boss.

Indeed, Arteta worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, while he graduated through Barcelona's famous La Masia academy as a youngster.

Real Madrid have also been heavily linked with a move for Arteta, as rumours swirl around Carlo Ancelotti's future at the Bernabeu.

While former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand revealed what he had 'heard' about the situation, causing concern among Arsenal supporters.

• QUIZ: Can you name every player to have scored 100 or more Premier League goals?
• Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told to drop "brilliant" Leandro Trossard for Liverpool clash
• Rio Ferdinand reveals what he's 'heard' about Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, it's not good news for Gunners fans
• Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta once threatened to "go to war" with FIFA over England rule