Patrick Vieira has been left disappointed with Arsenal's 'token gesture' after being contacted about the vacant managerial position at the club, according to a report.

The Frenchman, who has been in charge of New York City FC for the last two seasons, was previously linked with the Gunners hotseat as Arsene Wenger prepares to step down from his 22-year tenure.

However, recent reports have suggested that interest in Vieira from Arsenal has since cooled, with fellow ex-player Mikel Arteta believed to be the current frontrunner for the job.

According to Sky Sports News, the 41-year-old was left disappointed after speaking with the club and feels that the call was merely an inconsequential symbolic gesture to a former player.

Vieira made 406 appearances for the Gunners during a fruitful nine-year spell in North London.