Newcastle United have today been linked with a move for William Saliba.
The Daily Mail reported the Magpies are looking to potentially bring the French starlet in on loan.
The publication say a move for Celtic star Kris Ajer is now ‘unlikely’ and so the club are eyeing Arsenal man Saliba as an alternative.
The claim certainly comes out of the blue, with Saliba having not yet appeared for the Gunners’ first-team.
It remains to be seen what Arsenal decide to do with him.
But Newcastle may feel confident of doing a deal, especially given the success story that was Joe Willock.
The midfielder signed for the club in January for the remainder of the 2020/21 season and was a revelation.
He scored eight goals in total, and he ended up equalling Alan Shearer’s club record for goals in consecutives games (7).
It may be that Arsenal look at that and look to sort him a move to St. James’ Park, in the hope he shines just like Willock.
Willock success might help Newcastle in Saliba pursuit
Willock was sensational during his time on loan, and Arsenal may feel compelled to send £40,000-a-week star Saliba (Spotrac) to Newcastle if they feel he still needs more experience.
That probably wouldn’t go down too well with their fans, many of whom are desperate to see Saliba in a red shirt.
But if the plan is to specifically get Premier League experience for Saliba, then surely Mikel Arteta can’t look beyond Newcastle, who have undeniably been great for Willock’s development.
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