Arsenal have reportedly turned down the chance to sign Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote, according to the Daily Mail.
The Gunners have been offered the Ivory Coast midfielder ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline, however the North London outfit have decided against pursuing a move for the Ivory Coast defensive midfielder.
Arsene Wenger wants a midfielder in the mould of Tiote, but insists he will only go for a top talent in his search of a holding midfielder.
Wenger’s top target is rumoured to be Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin, as Wenger behind the scenes has informed the club that he wants the Frenchman in the summer window.
With the re-emergence to form of Francis Coquelin, Wenger believes that at this moment his defensive midfield options are more than capable to see him through until the end of the season.
I believe that Wenger is very sensible in not pursing a move for Tiote, who has struggled for form and has picked up many injuries throughout this season. My top target for the defensive midfield position is Morgan Schneiderlin who will have many offers on the table come the summer.
Tiote, who would cost in the region of £12million, is open to leaving St James’ Park in search of a new challenge.
But it is now likely that he will have to wait until the summer, as Arsenal and Arsene Wenger have other targets in mind.