'I can not guarantee' - Arsenal manager gives insight into future of Newcastle United transfer target

Mikel Arteta has refused to deny Aaron Ramsdale could leave Arsenal during the January transfer window after the England goalkeeper was linked with Newcastle United.

The former Sheffield United stopper has lost his place as Gunners’ number one after loan signing David Raya started nine of his side’s last ten Premier League fixtures, with the exception coming when he was unable to play against parent club Brentford.

Ramsdale has still made eight starts in all competitions this season but will be concerned his place in England’s Euro 2024 Finals squad could be at risk if he is unable to secure regular first-team football during the remainder of the season.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium and there have been suggestions Newcastle could look to make a move for his services after regular stopper Nick Pope suffered a dislocated shoulder in Saturday’s home win against Manchester United.

The 10-times capped England keeper is set to undergo surgery over the coming days and that should rule him out of action until the final month of the season. That has led to speculation the Magpies are considering a move for Gunners stopper Ramsdale - and Arteta has refused to indicate where his future could lie, despite conceding he wants to ensure he has ‘two very, very good goalkeepers’ in his squad.

“I want Aaron with us," Arteta told BBC Sport.

“I am very happy to have two very, very good goalkeepers and Aaron is staying with us.  We want to be better, so we want to add to what we already have. That's the intention that we have.  I won't do that (rule out an exit) to any player. Any player.  I cannot tell you that any Arsenal player is not going to leave in January. Or he is to stay here for the next three years.

"I won't say that no player is going to go to Newcastle. Or no member of the staff either. I won't say it. If you say yes or no, I won't say it.  I cannot guarantee that nobody is going to be leaving in January. For Newcastle or any other club. So it is a no.”