Arsene Wenger to Scout Stephan Lichtsteiner During Switzerland's Game Against Ecuador

Arsene Wenger is set to use Switzerland's game against Ecuador as a scouting mission to run the rule over Juventus right-back Stephan Lichtsteiner, according to the Mirror.

Arsenal confirmed earlier this week that Bacary Sagna will be leaving the Gunners after his current contract expires on 30 June. The Frenchman will be joining domestic rivals Manchester City after spending seven years in the capital.

Carl Jenkinson is the only recognised replacement on Arsenal's books, but is still inexperienced at the highest level. The Gunners' boss has been looking at various options to fill the right-back slot.

He has run the rule over various potential replacements, with Toulouse's Serge Aurier and Southampton teenager Calum Chambers being the most talked about candidates for the vacancy.

Lichtsteiner, who currently plays for the Italian champions, is an experienced right-back. He has been linked to Arsenal earlier after impressing Wenger with his performances for club and country. He was an integral part of the Juventus team that cruised to the Serie A title this season.

The 30-year-old defender is a regular starter for Switzerland and will be a good replacement for the departing Sagna. It is claimed that Lichtsteiner will be available for £9m since he is on the last year of his contract with the Serie A champions.

However, if Arsenal do make an approach for the Swiss defender they can expect a tough fight from fellow Premier League rivals Chelsea for his signature. The Blues are interested in luring him to Stamford Bridge as a replacement for the departing Ashley Cole.

Meanwhile, Didier Drogba has heaped praise on compatriot Serge Aurier after their opening match in the 2014 World Cup. Right-back Serge Aurier turned provider for both Ivory Coast goals in their comeback win against Japan.

"Today a young one had his say, Serge brought us energy and balance and he had a fantastic game. He's the best right-back in all of France. I think he'll do well at the next level too, in the Premier League," Drogba told FIFA.com.