- Newcastle are expected to be blocked from loaning players from Saudi Arabia
- Arsenal could like to take advantage of this by signing one of their targets
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Arsenal are reportedly set to move for a Newcastle target in the January transfer window.
The player in question is currently based in Saudi Arabia after moving there in the summer, and has been linked with a switch to St James’ Park in recent weeks.
However, Premier League clubs are expected to vote for a temporary ban on incoming loans between teams who have the same owners at a shareholder meeting next week.
This would prevent the Magpies from signing Ruben Neves, as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) currently have an 80 per cent stake in Newcastle and are in control of Neves’ current club Al-Hilal.
This is set to open the door for Newcastle’s rivals to make their play for Neves, and Arsenal are eyeing a move, according to talkSPORT.
Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his midfield and could move for a Saudi-based star in January
Newcastle have been linked with Ruben Neves, but Arsenal could now make their move for him
Newcastle are set to be blocked from loaning players from Saudi Arabia due to their owners also controlling several Saudi clubs
Neves thrived in the Premier League at Wolves, and is highly-rated by Arsenal’s sporting director Edu.
Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his midfield in January after struggling to settle on a trio during the opening months of the season.
Thomas Partey has been ruled out until 2024 with a thigh problem, while Martin Odegaard has missed the team’s last three matches.
The Arsenal captain has been battling with a hip issue over the past month, and was then forced to skip his side’s last two matches before the international break after suffering concussion from taking a ball to the face in training.
Summer signing Kai Havertz has also struggled to settle, making Declan Rice the only constant in the middle of the park for Arsenal right now.
Neves is still only 26, but made 177 top flight appearances for Wolves, and could bring invaluable experience to the north…