Nice manager Patrick Vieira has said that Arsenal did not contact him over their recent managerial vacancy.

The Frenchman and former Arsenal captain was heavily linked with replacing Unai Emery in the Emirates Stadium dugout before the Gunners opted for Manchester City assistant boss Mikel Arteta, who signed a three-and-a-half year contract with the North London club on Friday.

When asked whether he had been approached by the club before they appointed Arteta, Vieira said: "No. It's flattering seeing your name everywhere but I am under contract with Nice.

"I have known since I arrived how lucky I am to be involved with this club's project. I don't have any intention or desire to go and look elsewhere."

Arteta takes charge of his first match on Boxing Day when Arsenal travel to face Eddie Howe's Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.