Man City tipped to poach Mikel Arteta from Arsenal if Pep Guardiola leaves the Etihad

Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke has tipped Manchester City to approach Mikel Arteta should Pep Guardiola leave the Etihad.

There are plenty of question marks surrounding Guardiola's future after Manchester City were charged with several alleged breaches of financial rules by the Premier League.

And the bookmakers suggest that the Spaniard's days may be numbered, with many expecting the former Barcelona boss to walk.

In the wake of the news, Yorke has identified Arteta as his potential successor.

The Arsenal boss has led the Gunners to the top of the table following an excellent campaign. But they face a tough task against Manchester City on Wednesday in a potentially title defining contest.

The Gunners have a three point lead over the the reigning champions following their controversial 1-1 draw with Brentford on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Cityzens made light work of Aston Villa on Sunday, coming away comfortable 3-1 winners.

Man City tipped tipped to poach Arteta

In the event of Guardiola's exit, Yorke believes the club may go after Arteta as a replacement.

The 51-year-old told OLBG: "If Pep Guardiola leaves Manchester City, I can imagine them trying to replace Guardiola with Mikel Arteta, especially if Arsenal win the league.

"Until all the evidence and allegations come out, Guardiola will remain at the club and make a decision once the outcome arrives. We'll have to wait and see if anything does happen to Manchester City."

However, Yorke reckons he would be better off staying at the Emirates and building "his own legacy" as opposed to trying to follow the path of Guardiola.

"There are some jobs you can't just turn your nose up to. Mikel Arteta has done a fantastic job with Arsenal, and if Manchester City did approach him, I think he would have to think long and hard about the decision.

"Arteta can create his own legacy at Arsenal rather than going back to Manchester City and try to emulate what Pep Guardiola has done.

"It won't be a straightforward decision, but I like Arteta at Arsenal, and he's given himself a great platform to create a legacy. Either way, he will be at a very good club."