Newcastle United have reportedly entered the market for Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno, with a loan move on the cards.
According to 90 min, Newcastle United have expressed interest in Bernd Leno. The Magpies are well aware of the goalkeeper’s precarious situation at Arsenal and are hoping to snap him up in the ongoing January transfer window. Leno himself is believed to be keen on an immediate exit, with St. James Park emerging as a potential destination.
Newcastle United have held talks with Arsenal surrounding a potential loan deal, with an obligation to buy once the club secures Premier League survival. Leno has not enjoyed the best of seasons at the Emirates so far, falling behind Aaron Ramsdale in the pecking order and mustering a total of just three Premier League appearances.
The lack of game-time has left the German frustrated as he looks to take the next step in his career. Arsenal, for their part, are already preparing for life without the former Leverkusen star, having targeted Matt Turner of the New England Revolution.
The American international has been identified as an ideal backup stopper for Ramsdale, with the player himself determined to join Arsenal in this January transfer window.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s interest in Bernd Leno stems from Eddie Howe’s desire to find a solid alternative for first-choice goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. The Slovakian international is currently struggling with a toe injury, whereas Freddie Woodman appears to have no future at the club.
Bernd Leno, to that end, could prove to be an excellent investment. With 100 appearances in the Premier League and 233 in the Bundesliga, the Arsenal outcast has vast experience at the highest level of football that could be useful as Newcastle look to enter a new era under their Saudi-backed ownership.
The Magpies have already enhanced their defence by bringing in Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid. The further addition of Leno could be another step in the right direction for Newcastle United, though it remains to be seen if Arsenal sanction the departure of the 29-year-old this January.
The report states that the Gunners are worried about the lack of a reliable alternative for Ramsdale. As such, they are unlikely to offload Leno until the end of the season, especially with the goalkeeper having a contract until 2023. Hence, the German’s potential move to Newcastle United could hinge on Arsenal’s reported pursuit of Matt Turner this week.
