Guardian Unlimited and Times newspapers stated that the United full-back is set to snub Sunderland and Manchester City for Arsene Wenger's team.

It is believed that Frenchman Wenger is looking to exploit the versatility of his compatriot in the Gunners' backline.

Silvestre, 31, is likely to be sold for around £750,000 after spending nine years at Old Trafford under the management of Sir Alex Ferguson.

The veteran defender rarely featured for United last season, as he was recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament operation.

The former Rennes full-back was also linked with a move to Paris Saint Germain, but is likely to opt for the Arsenal move.