While the mood around Arsenal remains sombre following Sunday’s defeat at Manchester City, things are starting to look up for Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of this weekend’s upcoming Premier League clash with Newcastle United.
The Gunners were dealt a significant blow when City beat them at the Etihad, with this result reducing the gap between the two teams to just three points. Pep Guardiola’s men also have a game in hand, meaning the North Londoners’ lead at the summit of the English top flight is as slender as it has been for some time.
However, Arsenal did perform admirably in the north-west, and they now have a week off to recover from the intensity of that showdown. An out-of-form Newcastle await at the Emirates, in what is a perfect opportunity for Arteta’s team to bounce back.
With that said, here is the latest Arsenal news today, including updates on Bukayo Saka, Tino Livramento and Anthony Gordon.
Bukayo Saka close to Arsenal return
Bukayo Saka’s absence has arguably been overlooked in the midst of Arsenal’s recent poor form. At his best, the winger carries the Gunners’ attack, and thus it’s no surprise that their offensive game has dropped off without him available.
Fortunately for Arteta, it appears as though Saka is nearing a return. According to the Independent, the England international could be back in the fold ‘over the next week’.
Saka hasn’t featured since the Carabao Cup final before the international break, so his possible return could reignite the North Londoners heading into the final weeks of the campaign.
Newcastle dealt injury blows ahead of Arsenal clash
While Arsenal have a number of players still recovering from injury problems, Newcastle have several of their own issues to contend with.
Eddie Howe confirmed after the Magpies’ game against Bournemouth on Saturday that both Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento are doubts for the clash at the Emirates. Gordon missed the encounter with the Cherries with a groin strain, while Livramento was forced off the pitch in that game.
Meanwhile, Joelinton is suspended for the Arsenal showdown after picking up his tenth yellow card of the season in a game against Crystal Palace last week. Long-term absentees Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth remain out.
Arsenal target Anthony Gordon heavily linked with Bayern Munich
It’s well documented that Arsenal want to sign a left-winger this summer. The Gunners have been heavily linked with the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Yan Diomande, while Anthony Gordon is another name who has been mooted.
However, Andrea Berta’s pursuit of Gordon may just have been presented with a huge stumbling block. According to the Times, Newcastle will sell the Englishman if they are to receive an offer in the region of £75 million.
The report also suggests that Bayern Munich are now leading the race to land the wide man, significantly denting Arsenal’s chances of securing his servcies.
