There are no shortage of candidates to replace Arsene Wenger this summer.

The Frenchman sent shockwaves through English football when he revealed on Friday that he is entering the final month of his 22-year reign at the club. It will be the Gunners' first change in management since Bruce Rioch left Highbury back in 1996.

Who will Arsenal turn to this summer, though?

Big name managers such as Carlo Ancelotti, Luis Enrique and Massimiliano Allegri have been linked with the job as well as ex-players such as Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry.

Numerous factors will dictate who gets the job this summer, ranging from the coach's availability and possibly even the opinion of Wenger himself.

Ivan Gazidis weighing up options

The man who will ultimately provide the final recommendation to Stan Kroenke, however, is club chief executive Ivan Gazidis.

Upon the Wenger announcement on Friday, the Oxford University alumnus stated: "We are going to take what Arsene has given us and continue the values he has instilled.

"It's going to be a condensed summer with the World Cup in the middle of it. Having clarity sooner is better.

"We want someone who plays progressive, exciting football that gets people interested and excited in games we play.

"Another significant piece is how the candidate represents the club and it must be someone who gives youth a chance."

Gazidis wants Arteta to replace Wenger

That's the criteria but who does Gazidis consider the man for the job?

Well, according to Sky Sports, Mikel Arteta is the preferred choice of the chief executive. 

Gazidis believes that Arteta is the man to take Arsenal forward over coming years, after impressing as a coach at Manchester City and in spite of his lack of managerial experience.

Arteta is the latest former Arsenal player to be linked with the job, making 149 appearances for the club over five years, and is now the second favourite with many bookmakers.

That being said, Gazidis isn't the only kingmaker at Arsenal, even if his recommendation is final.

Head of football operations Raul Sanllehi is believed to favour Enrique, while Sven Mislintat is exploring the availability of Schalke and Hoffenheim bosses Domenico Tedesco and Julian Nagelsmann.

It is also noted in the report that Rafael Benitez and Brendan Rodgers are not being considered as serious candidates. 

Gazidis, Sanllehi and Mislintat will begin discussions with potential candidates this week. Strap yourselves in, Arsenal fans.

Who do you think should replace Arsene Wenger this summer? Have your say in the comments section below.