Report: PSG want Wenger to replace sporting director Henrique
Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly looking to make a big change upstairs.
The French giants are hoping to entice former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to become their new general manager after the January transfer window, suggests ESPN's Jonathan Johnson.
Les Parisiens are thought to be looking to ditch current chief Antero Henrique, with the Portuguese sporting director coming under fire for his transfer policy - notably failing to secure primary targets such as Chelsea engine N'Golo Kante - and his working methods.
Henrique's relationship with head coach Thomas Tuchel is thought to be frayed at best, while PSG captain Thiago Silva reportedly replied "ask Antero" when questioned about his side's unorthodox midfield lineup in the Champions League defeat to Liverpool last month.
PSG coach Thomas Tuchel & under-fire sporting director Antero Henrique reportedly "barely speak," while chairman & CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi remains "strangely discreet." https://t.co/d1ao5Q0a7G
— Jonathan Johnson (@Jon_LeGossip) September 19, 2018
The final straw may have been being beaten to the punch by AC Milan director Leonardo in the race for Flamengo prodigy Lucas Paqueta. Henrique was intending to activate a €50-million release clause in January, reports Johnson, before Leonardo negotiated down the price significantly.
According to Johnson, Wenger has told PSG he'd like to keep his options open and is unlikely to make a decision until around Christmas. The 68-year-old - who left his post as Gunners manager after 22 years at the end of last season - would reportedly prefer a coaching job, but is open to other significant roles that become available.
PSG would reportedly be willing to offer Wenger the opportunity to revamp the club's academy and other areas both on and off the field should he agree to join the staff.