Arsenal are ready to test Newcastle’s resolve in keeping their top players following their relegation from the Premier League this season by reportedly targeting a move for Moussa Sissoko when the summer transfer window opens.
The France international, 26, is widely expected to leave St. James’ Park and start afresh elsewhere this summer, as Championship football next season will be the deciding factor whether or not he remains at the club.
Arsenal were heavily linked with Sissoko before he made the move to Newcastle back in 2013 and was also a subject of interest from the Gunners during the past three years.
Arsene Wenger is believed to be looking to add a powerful and pacy midfielder to the squad this summer and is thought to be a huge admirer of his fellow countryman.
The versatile midfielder could cost Wenger up to £10 million and the prospect of being a Premier League player, as well as participating in the Champions League, next season may be an offer too tempting to turn down for Sissoko.
However, Rafa Benitez will be reluctant to sell Sissoko – as well as another group of players at the club – but the Spaniard will find it difficult to keep hold of them after dropping into the Championship.
Sissoko would certainly thrive at Arsenal and under Wenger, and wouldn’t cost as much as he would if Newcastle stayed up. There is definitely room for him at the club following the departures of Mikel Arteta, Mathieu Flamini and Tomas Rosicky.
However, many will question the player’s character and fight following a poor season at the Tyneside club.
Watch this space.
