Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants to replace Jack Wilshere with former academy player Oguzhan Ozyakup according to reports in Turkey.

The Aksam newspaper claim that Wenger believes Ozyakup is now ready to return to Arsenal after spending the last five years at Besiktas.

Per the source, the Gunners boss has been keeping close tabs on the progress of the Turkey international and feels the moment is right for him to return to the Emirates.

Wenger would also conveniently be able to see his former starlet return on a free transfer.

Ozyakup will be a free agent at the end of the season unless he signs a contract extension.

The 24-year-old has always made it clear he intends to return to Arsenal one day.

See More: The one Wenger let get away? From Arsenal to Besiktas – The Rise of Oguzhan Ozyakup

The report claims that Wilshere, who is also going to be out of contract this summer, is headed towards a move to Spain.

Coincidently Wilshere and Ozyakup were both part of the Arsenal side that lifted the 2009 Youth FA Cup.

Ozyakup went onto join Besiktas in search of first team opportunities, going onto win back to back league titles over the past two seasons.

Wenger reportedly wants Ozyakup in his midfield as a potential partner for Mesut Ozil in midfield.

The Netherlands born midfielder is expected to start for the Black Eagles against Karabukspor on Saturday.

Ozyakup has also been named in the Champions League squad set to face Bayern Munich in the Last 16 on 20 February.

Arsenal are expected to scout the midfielder over the Last 16 in the elite European club competition.