The French winger has been electric when picked for United this season (Picture: Getty)

Arsene Wenger has identified Manchester United star Anthony Martial as the player he wants to replace Alexis Sanchez at Arsenal, according to reports.

The Chilean is out of contract next summer and refusing to sign a deal, with the Gunners now increasingly resigned to losing him for nothing and preparing for his likely exit.

And, according to The Sunday Mirror, Wenger is already plotting a move for Martial and is confident he can secure his services, despite United being adamant he will not leave.

Martial was named United’s Player of the Month for September, but has made just one Premier League start this term (Picture: Getty)

Wenger wants a player who can operate out wide or through the middle, just as Sanchez has done for the Gunners since leaving Barcelona.

But Jose Mourinho has given him precious few opportunities to lead the line centrally, and Wenger thinks the offer of that role could tempt Martial.

Sanchez looks certain to leave Arsenal, perhaps even in January, and has even been linked with a switch to United – though City are favourites (Picture: Getty)

He is now looking for encouragement from Martial to make his move, but is already of the belief that the youngster is open to moving to London.

Ironically, Old Trafford has been muted as a potential destination for both Sanchez and, more recently, his fellow contract rebel Mesut Ozil.

Wenger and Arsenal have been adamant that the duo will not be sold in January, but if they refuse to sign new deals – and if Martial is an option – Wenger might consider changing that stance.

Martial has made a terrific start to the new campaign despite being in and out of the starting XI, scoring three goals and laying on two assists in the Premier League, as well as netting in Europe.

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