Arsenal 'want' Newcastle United favourite amid 'possible' Mikel Arteta admission and injury blow

Arsenal have been linked with a surprise move for a Newcastle United star as they look to bolster their attack on the final day of the transfer window. The window closes at 11pm on Friday, and the Gunners are hoping to do some more business ahead of the cut-off point.

Aaron Ramsdale has departed and could be joined by others in leaving the club, while Mikel Arteta and Edu are keeping an eye out for attacking options with either a striker or a winger likely to be on the wishlist. According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon is of interest, but a deal is unlikely on deadline day.

Gordon has enjoyed a superb start to life at St James’ Park and would likely cost around £80million, a fee Arsenal are not likely to be able to pay this summer due to Profit and Sustainability rules and their big spending last summer. Not to mention Newcastle may not sell at any price at this late stage in the window, meaning a deal would likely have to wait until next summer.

The report also suggests that Newcastle are preparing a new contract offer for Gordon, one that would reflect his importance to the club and - they hope - keep his head from turning amid interest from elsewhere. Premier League giants Liverpool have also been linked this summer.

The 23-year-old is currently under contract at St James’ Park until 2026.

Arteta has said of Arsenal’s potential deadline day business amid links with Chelsea man Raheem Sterling: “Let's see, it's always possible. In the last 24 hours of the transfer window, never rule out anything.” He added: “Sterling? I cannot talk about a player of another team, you know I never do”.

Merino blow

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that new £32million signing Mikel Merino has picked up a shoulder injury in training, delaying the Spaniard’s debut following his arrival from Real Sociedad. Arteta said in his pre-match press conference: “Very unfortunate yesterday he had a collision and he has got a shoulder injury unfortunately. It looks like he is going to be out for a few weeks.

“First session with us. It was looking exciting, we were all very excited, everything was looking very good… he landed on the floor and Gabi went on top of him. It looks like he has got a small fracture probably. We have to see (how long he will be out), he was in so much pain, we have to see wait to do some more tests. Then we will have more conclusive answers. This is football.”