Gunners keen on Newcastle’s Tiote

According to Talk Sport, Arsenal are interested in signing highly rated Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote, however it will take a fee believed to be in the region on £20 million.

Tiote did sign a new contract with the Magpies last year that went through until 2017. That said though, Arsene Wenger is keen to make a move for the Ivory Coast international but may not want to pay the figure that is being suggested.

The Gunners will need to boost their midfield if they are to make a genuine title challenge this year and Tiote certainly has proved himself as a top quality player during his time in the North East.

Alan Pardew will know that he can put his player’s price tag up due to the length of his contract, which could see him stay at the Sports Direct Arena for the foreseeable future.

Pardew is also likely to want to build on his squad that finished in fifth position in the English Premier League last season and not lose one of his star men.

Should Arsenal come in with the right amount of money though, Tiote may wish to join the North London side. However, Wenger will want to secure his services for a much smaller fee.