Sunderland's Sorensen has been tipped to succeed Seaman

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger will discuss the England number one's future at the end of the season.

And if Seaman decides to retire from playing then, there is a coaching role at the club ready and waiting for him.

Wenger said: "I have offered him a contract as a goalkeeping coach when he retires as a player.

"That could be next season or the season afterwards. We'll make a decision at the end of this campaign."

Wenger added that Seaman's retirement date would depend on his form and that of potential successors Stuart Taylor, Guillaume Warmuz and Graham Stack.

If Arsenal really are interested in me, then it's a positive Thomas Sorensen

However, another name mentioned as a possible replacement for Seaman has insisted he has not agreed a move to Highbury.

Sunderland's Thomas Sorensen has been the subject of speculation linking him to the Gunners.

The 26-year-old Danish international said on Tuesday he was flattered by the rumours but claimed they were as yet without substance.

Sorensen said: "I haven't heard anything official from Arsenal, but I don't really want to comment on it. Time will tell what will happen.

"If Arsenal really are interested in me, then it's a positive because they are one of the really big clubs."

Sorensen cost Sunderland an initial �500,000 from Odense BK in 1998 and is one of the players most likely to be snapped up should the club be relegated this season.