Arsenal’s rivals Tottenham Hotspur have pulled out of running for Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin, that is according to the Express.

The Saints enforcer was widely tipped to leave St Mary’s in the summer with the white or red half of north London expected to be his destination.

With the transfer window now open, and rumours of a January bid from Mauricio Pochettino and Arsene Wenger intensifying during the winter months, it is certainly a surprise – a welcomed one, though – to read the Spurs gaffer won’t be returning with a bid for his former player.

It is believed that Tottenham have turned their attentions to Everton’s James McCarthy – who, coincedentially, has also been linked with a move to Arsenal.

Personally, I’d be happy for Wenger to bring in either one of the midfielders this transfer window, however, I’m sure us Gooners are starting to worry that Francis Coquelin’s impressive performances will see Le Professeur shelve the DM purchase…again.

Click below to watch the Premier League LIVE!