Arsenal enter the race for Newcastle’s Euro star Sissoko
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Arsenal are the latest club to be linked with a move for Newcastle United’s Moussa Sissoko, following the midfielder’s star turn for France at the European Championships.
The Gunners have already signed Granit Xhaka from Borussia Monchengladbach, but Sissoko would offer boss Arsene Wenger that quality box-to-box midfielder the club have been lacking in recent years.
Having disappointed for the Magpies last season as the Geordie side were relegated, Sissoko made sure he was on everyone’s radar with a series of excellent displays for his country at the Euros.
Liverpool, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund are just some of the other sides linked with the 26-year-old in the wake of his summer performances.
As they prepare to sell Georginio Wijnaldum to Liverpool, Newcastle will be reluctant to let another star asset leave as they begin their bid for promotion back to the Premier League.
But it’s believed Sissoko himself is keen on a move away from St James’ Park, with so many European heavyweights courting his signature.
As ever, any deal for the midfielder will come down to money, and that’s where Arsenal may be struggling.
The Gunners are reportedly happy to pay up to £20m, but Rafa Benitez’s Magpies want nearer £35m.
With a contract running until 2019, Newcastle are in no hurry to sell, but they may be somewhat concerned over which Sissoko will turn up next season.
Should last year’s lacklustre midfielder fail to adapt to life in the Championship, the Toon could regret not cashing in, even if it’s not for their maximum asking price.
As for Arsenal, they’ll be kicking off their campaign hoping to end what’s now a 13-year wait for the title when they host Liverpool next month.
The Gunners are 11/10 for an opening weekend victory, with Jurgen Klopp’s side 12/5 but will Sissoko be in an Arsenal shirt by then?
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
