This is what Newcastle United's hierarchy believe could happen with Granit Xhaka

Steve Bruce – who is looking to strengthen his midfield in January’s transfer window – is interested in signing Xhaka, who hasn’t played for his club since late last month.

The Switzerland international, stripped of the captaincy at Arsenal after swearing at supporters as he left the field following his substitution against Crystal Palace, needs to play ahead of next summer’s European Championships.

Newcastle face competition from abroad, notably AC Milan. However, there’s a belief that Arsenal yet could be prepared to loan out the 27-year-old – who plays for Switzerland alongside United defender Fabian Schar – in the New Year. It is hoped that Schar could persuade Xhaka to move to Tyneside.

The other issue is Xhaka’s £5m-plus salary, which would break the wage structure at St James’s Park.