The start of the Unai Emery era at Arsenal represents something bigger than just a new man in the Emirates dugout.

First and foremost, it signals the end of Arsene Wenger's all-encompassing, omnipresent style of management.

The Frenchman was one of the last of his kind and his replacement coach will be just that: a coach. More power will therefore be handed to the likes of Sven Mislintat and the Gunners' head of recruitment has already begun making his mark.

So, when talking of 'Emery's men' next season, the question is exactly how much control the former Sevilla boss will have over the make-up of that squad.

Stephan Lichtsteiner was the first signing of the summer, the full-back coming in on a free transfer. A deal is close to being agreed with Borussia Dortmund for Sokratis Papastathopoulos.

It's clear that a central midfielder is also high on the north Londoner's wishlist, with Steven N'Zonzi being heavily linked. And then there's Marouane Fellaini.

Before delving into any criticism of the Belgian, it's worth noting that three successive Manchester United managers have persevered with him and he has earned 82 caps for the national team. Who knows, he may even win a World Cup this summer as part of the Red Devils' Golden Generation.

Paul Hirst of the Times was among the first to recognise that Arsenal were genuinely scouting Fellaini and it wasn't just a rumour.

Pires has had his say on Fellaini 

Unsurprisingly, that report was met with a mixed reaction from their supporters, but not from Robert Pires.

The legendary Invincible has given his backing to the 30-year-old's potential arrival and has raised an interesting question about his relationship with Jose Mourinho in the process.

"Why not? Everybody knows Marouane Fellaini in the Premier League," he told Sky Sports, as quoted via the Daily Mail.

"Of course last season it was very, very difficult, the relation with Jose Mourinho.

"But I think he's a good player, if he wants to join Arsenal I think it would be good news.

"He needs a new start and I think, with his quality, I think he can help Unai Emery and he can help the Arsenal players in the squad."

So, what exactly is Fellaini's situation?

His contract with United expires this summer and while a new deal is on the table, he is yet to sign it as he and his representatives quibble over wages.

That means he is available for free, which is a huge bonus, particularly as N'Zonzi is set to cost over £35million.

It would be a bold move but maybe a little of Fellaini's physicality wouldn't go amiss in Arsenal's midfield.

Should Arsenal sign Fellaini? Have your say in the comments.