Newcastle United are pursuing a surprise loan deal for Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno, according to new reports.
This comes from Graeme Bailey at 90min, who reports that we’ve held talks with the Gunners over a deal until the end of the season which would include an obligation to buy should we pull off Premier League survival.
The German International has struggled for game time at the Emirates this season, with him losing his place to England sensation Aaron Ramsdale over the past six months.
90min report that Leno has told Mikel Arteta that he would like to leave this month, having featured in just three Premier League games this term, however it seems Arsenal are concerned his exit could leave them short in the goalkeeping department.
As for our need for a new goalkeeper, it’s been obvious for several weeks now that Martin Dubravka has struggled to cope with Eddie Howe’s eagerness to play out from the back, with the usually reliable Slovakian looking an accident waiting to happen on the ball.
Elsewhere, Karl Darlow is another shot stopper not known for his ability with the ball at his fee – unlike Leno – while former England U21 talent Freddie Woodman could be in line for a loan move of his own after struggling earlier this season when handed his chance under Steve Bruce.
Leno is approaching the final 12 months of his deal at Arsenal, so a loan that included an obligation to buy this summer could suit the Gunners should we stay up.
