Manchester United cleared to sign Southampton star Morgan Schneiderlin after Arsenal end interest

Manchester United have been handed a massive boost in their pursuit of signing Southampton star Morgan Schneiderlin.

The French international's brilliant display for the Saints has seen him attract interest from United, while their league rivals Arsenal have long been interested in securing his services.

The South Coast club value Schneiderlin around £25m ($38.1m). According to the Daily Mail, the Gunners are unwilling to meet Southampton's asking price as Arsene Wenger is looking for other options to strengthen his side's midfield.

Francis Coquelin has emerged as one of the surprise players to impress for the north London club, especially in the second half of last season. His sudden rise in form has forced the French manager to hesitate to match Southampton's valuation for Schneiderlin.

AS Monaco's Geoffrey Kondogbia has been linked with a move to the Emirates as Arsenal are keen on landing the tall, tough tackling midfielder. In addition to this, Schneiderlin's club teammate Victor Wanyama has publicly expressed his desire to join the Gunners.

The Gunners' refusal to meet Schneiderlin's transfer fee could allow United to land the player. The midfielder has already admitted that he wants to stay in England and also revealed his dreams of playing in the Champions League.

"Yes, I think my decision is made. I learned a lot last season. The goal is to stay in England. It is a championship that I like and where I have a lot of fun. If I leave Southampton, it is for a club that plays better than the Europa League. Schneiderlin told French radio station RMC.

"There are ongoing discussions but nothing is done. But of course the Champions League is my goal. If I leave Southampton it will be for a club in the Champions League. I have a two-year contract. If a club pays the right amount for me, it will be time to leave.

United will not have any trouble in meeting Southampton's asking price. Louis van Gaal has already confirmed he will sign a midfielder as he looks to find a partner for Michael Carrick. In the absence of the England international, the Red Devils have clearly struggled last season.

With Arsenal looking for alternatives in the transfer market and also Schneiderlin's desire to continue in England, the Gunners have paved the way for United to land the Saints midfielder.