Arsenal are reportedly closing in on Newcastle United holding midfielder Cheick Tiote, according to reports in London today.
The Gunners have been chasing Real Madrid ace Sami Khedira and Sporting Lisbon star William Carvalho all summer, but it seems they have instead turned their attentions to Tiote as an adequate alternative.
The report suggests Arsenal are hopeful of fending off interest from Russian club Lokomotiv to sign the combative Tiote. The midfielder looks destined to leave Tyneside this summer after instructing his agent to find him a new club.
Lokomotiv have seen an £8 million offer turned down but they would be willing to do business at £14 million.
The 28 year old joined Newcastle United in 2010 and made an immediate impact on the squad, becoming a regular starter. He has made 107 Premier League appearances for the club since his move from Dutch side Twente. He also has 47 caps for Ivory Coast.