Arsenal turn down chance to sign Tiote

The Metro understands that Arsenal have turned down the chance to sign Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote.

The Ivory Coast international has been continuously linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in over the past two seasons, though Arsene Wenger has declined the chance to sign the 28 year old this month.

Since moving to St James’ Park in the summer of 2010, Tiote has racked up one hundred and thirty appearances in all competitions, scoring his one and only goal in a dramatic 4-4 with Arsenal in February 2011.

He is currently away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations, and won his forty-eighth senior cap in last week’s 1-1 draw with Mali.

Arsenal, who go in to the weekend in fifth place, one point behind fourth place Manchester United host Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon and can be backed at a price of 1/4 for the win.