Newcastle United have allegedly identified Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka as a potential January signing.

Last month, Xhaka reacted angrily to supporters cheering his substitution against Crystal Palace - actions which have resulted in the Switzerland international missing the last three matches and being stripped of the club captaincy.

There is a suggestion that the Gunners are now prepared to part ways with the 27-year-old at the midway point of the campaign, a development which will result in widespread interest from elsewhere.

According to The Times, Newcastle are thinking about offering Xhaka an escape route from the Emirates Stadium, either on a permanent or temporary basis.

While the Magpies are keen to strengthen in order to boost their hopes of avoiding relegation, Xhaka requires regular first-team football ahead of representing his country at Euro 2020.