Mikel Arteta quizzed on the Arsenal future of Newcastle United January targets Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Joe Willock

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been quizzed on the future of Newcastle United January targets Joe Willock and Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
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United are thought to be one of three Premier League clubs exploring the option of bringing England international Maitland-Niles in on loan, with Leicester City said to be at the front of the queue.

While Willock, who started against the Magpies in the FA Cup last month, is also thought to be under consideration by the United hierarchy.

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“We have decided, we are working on it. You’ll find out before 11," said Arteta when asked about potential outgoings today.

Arsenal's English midfielder Joe Willock (R) pushes back Manchester City's English midfielder Phil Foden (C) during the English League Cup quarter final football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, in London on December 22, 2020.Arsenal's English midfielder Joe Willock (R) pushes back Manchester City's English midfielder Phil Foden (C) during the English League Cup quarter final football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, in London on December 22, 2020.
Arsenal's English midfielder Joe Willock (R) pushes back Manchester City's English midfielder Phil Foden (C) during the English League Cup quarter final football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, in London on December 22, 2020.

Referring specifically to Maitland-Niles, Arteta continued: “I can’t speak about any individual players. We know what we want to do and the conversations we’ve had, which are for various reasons. Let’s see if we can get something done tonight.

“Again I cannot talk about any individual players and what the plans are now and for the future.”

When pushed further on attacking midfielder Willock, the Spaniard said: “You mentioned a few players so you have a better chance. The more you mention the greater chance you have to get it right. Again we are discussing things with some players and some clubs, and if we make anything before the deadline it’s what we believe is the right thing for the development.”

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Newcastle United are looking to do at least one deal before the closure of the transfer window at 11pm.

So far this window only Rolando Aarons has left the club, with DeAndre Yedlin very close to a move to Galatasaray.

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