Former Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has revealed that he is learning English amid links to Arsenal.
However, the Italian tactician won't be making a return to management until next summer at the earliest.
That might serve as a blow to the Gunners as they have been linked with appointing Allegri as a replacement for Unai Emery who was sacked last week following a number of poor results as well as performances.
Allegri certainly has the pedigree to fill the vacant position and his winning mentality is something the Gunners squad could do with right now as they haven't tasted victory since mid-October.
Furthermore, the 52-year-old is preparing for a return to the dugout and has hinted at trying his hand in the Premier League.
Although, it won't be for the time being.
"In June. I don't know if you can call it a sabbatical or not," he told ESPN. "Giovanni [Branchini] and I immediately came to that decision. As soon as the relationship with Juventus came to an end, the decision was to take a year out.
"I had 18 years as a player and I've been in coaching for 16. I stopped this year after 34. I'm happy.
"I have a chance to reflect, go and talk to people, do things in my private life that I'm passionate about, like going to the theatre, some art exhibitions, reading books.
"I am taking lessons here in Milan. I manage to speak quite well. I find the listening part a bit more difficult.
"If I'm talking to someone who helps me out by speaking a little slower, then I understand.
"I watch films [in English] and if I read something in English I understand it fine."
Other names reportedly on the Gunners' shortlist includes Mauricio Pochettino, Mikel Arteta, Brendan Rodgers and Marcelino.
Meanwhile, interim head coach Freddie Ljungberg commented on the situation following Arsenal's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Brighton on Thursday night.
"It's totally up to the club what they want to do," he said. "There's nothing I can get involved with. I said I love this football club and help them wherever they need it and it's up to them to make the decisions."
