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Arsenal put fresh name on transfer wish list - but target may wait a year to make decision
ARSENAL are considering making a swoop for a Newcastle youngster but may end up waiting a year before finalising a move.
Arsenal: Emery to continue ‘improving’ squad
Arsenal boss Unai Emery is interested in signing Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, with the intention of making the youngster the club’s back-up to Bernd Leno.
The Gunners saw Petr Cech retire from playing football last season and return to Chelsea as a technical and performance advisor, which left Emery with Emiliano Martinez as his current back-up.
Woodman has made two appearances for Newcastle during their pre-season friendlies, but the 22-year-old has turned down an offer of a new contract from the club.
The keeper reportedly wanted to go out on loan last season to gain more experience, but according to The Chronicle, the Magpies blocked his request after he refused to agree to a new deal.
I’ve got a year left on my contract. It’s an awkward situation
Woodman is out of contract at the end of the season, so Arsenal may wait until next summer to make a move if Newcastle’s asking price is deemed too high now.
However, the report claims that Arsenal could face competition from Celtic, with Hoops boss Neil Lennon considering adding the England Under-21 international to his side.
Earlier this month Woodman was quite clear about how he feels about his position at St James’ Park.
“It’s difficult for me to say,” he said.
England's Freddie Woodman makes stunning saves in training
“I’ve got a year left on my contract. It’s an awkward situation.
“I just want to keep getting games and minutes and learn as much as I can.”
It is believed Steve Bruce would be willing to part ways with the keeper if the price is right.
The Geordie boss is expected to keep Martin Dubravka as his number one choice, with Karl Darlow as backup.
Woodman’s future at the club also appears uncertain after the Magpies recently confirmed the capture of goalkeeper Jake Turner.
Freddie Woodman makes two amazing saves against Rangers
The 20-year-old was out of contract following a spell at Bolton Wanderers and after sealing his dream move Turner insisted he cannot wait to get going at Newcastle.
“It’s excellent for me, and I can’t wait to get started,” said Turner.
“Stepping up to a Premier League club is massive. We’ll see where I progress – playing in the Premier League is a dream – so we’ll see what happens.
“It’s a massive club, and I can’t wait to get going here.”