Premier League side Newcastle United have reportedly placed an Arsenal player at the top of their summer transfer wishlist, as manager Eddie Howe looks to add experience and versatility to the squad.
Arsenal’s rise back into contention for major honours under Mikel Arteta has brought increased competition for places, but it has also created difficult situations for several players within the squad.
With depth improving across multiple positions, some first-team regulars have found their roles reduced, leading to speculation about their long-term futures at the club.
In recent months, reports have suggested that a number of Arsenal players are weighing up their options, either to fight for their place in North London or to seek more consistent playing time elsewhere.
The demands of competing in the Premier League and UEFA competitions have forced the club to build a deeper squad, but that same depth has inevitably left some players frustrated.
READ MORE: Senegalese star on Arsenal radar ahead of busy transfer window
This dynamic is particularly evident in defensive areas, where increased competition and tactical adjustments have reshaped the pecking order. For players who were once automatic starters, limited minutes and changing roles have fuelled uncertainty, especially with a crucial summer transfer window approaching.
According to reports from Sports Boom, Newcastle United are planning a summer move for Ben White, with the Arsenal defender described as “disgruntled” over his current situation at the Emirates Stadium.
The report claims that White has grown frustrated after losing his regular starting spot at right-back to Jurrien Timber, who has emerged as Arteta’s preferred option this season. Limited game time has contributed to that dissatisfaction, with the England international featuring far less frequently than in previous campaigns.
Newcastle are understood to be monitoring the situation closely and have identified White as a potential replacement for Kieran Trippier, whose future at St James’ Park remains uncertain amid contract discussions. The Magpies reportedly view White’s experience at the top level and versatility across the backline as key attributes that would strengthen their squad.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Further reports suggest that White has moved to the top of Newcastle’s shortlist, with the club preparing for possible defensive changes this summer. At the same time, Arsenal could be open to a sale under the right conditions, with suggestions that sporting director Andrea Berta may consider offers if a significant fee is presented.
White, who joined Arsenal from Brighton in 2021 for a reported £50 million fee, has been a key figure during Arteta’s rebuild, operating both at centre-back and right-back. However, increased competition, injuries, and tactical shifts have reduced his prominence this season, even as he recently earned a recall to the England squad.
While no formal bid has been made, Newcastle’s interest signals what could become one of the more intriguing Premier League transfer battles of the summer. Much will depend on Arsenal’s stance and whether White decides to pursue a fresh challenge or fight for his place in North London.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal planning summer move for Moroccan forward