London Defender

The Daily Mirror of the Great Britain

Newcastle owners ‘identify Arsenal outcast Matteo Guendouzi as potential transfer target’

Newcastle are reportedly eyeing up a transfer for Arsenal midfield Matteo Guendouzi.

The 22-year-old has fallen out-of-favour at the Emirates and is currently on his second year-long loan spell away from the club.

He spent last season at Hertha Berlin and has impressed so far this campaign at Ligue 1 side Marseille.

Newcastle could reportedly look to make a move for Arsenal outcast Matteo Guendouzi

Newcastle could reportedly look to make a move for Arsenal outcast Matteo Guendouzi

Foot Mercato have now reported that the new Saudi-led regime are interesting in bringing the youngster to St James’ Park next summer.

It has been a hectic few weeks for the club following the takeover of the club from Mike Ashley – which made them the richest club football.

Steve Bruce was sacked last month, and after failing to persuade Unai Emery to leave Villarreal they are set to appoint former Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe to lead the team.

Newcastle's owners are interested in the Frenchman and could look to sign him next summer

Newcastle’s owners are interested in the Frenchman and could look to sign him next summer

Guendouzi is currently out on loan at Marseille where he has been praised for strong displays

Guendouzi is currently out on loan at Marseille where he has been praised for strong displays

Guendouzi has been praised for his brilliant performances in Ligue 1 so far this season in which he has scored three goals and provided the same number of assists.

His performances have been rewarded in recent time with call-ups for France’s international fixtures in September and October – although he is still to get his first cap.  

Guendouzi though has obtained a ‘bad boy’ reputation and has not started for the Gunners since a 2-1 defeat to Brighton in June 2020.

Guendouzi has been out of the Arsenal squad since their 2-1 defeat to Brighton in June 2020

Guendouzi has been out of the Arsenal squad since their 2-1 defeat to Brighton in June 2020

Following a post-match altercation with Neal Maupay he was excluded from the squad due to a ‘history of issues’ over his attitude and conduct. 

It was also reported in September that Marseille players were ‘fed up’ of the French midfielder, and were ‘struggling’ with his way of working.

It came after the hot-headed Frenchman confronted team-mate Gerson on the pitch during their 3-2 defeat by Lens.