Former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant believes that Gunners striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang should make the switch to Newcastle this month.
The Gabon international is yet to feature for the side since a disciplinary issue that saw him stripped of the club captaincy.
Reports have since suggested that Mikel Arteta is open to letting the 32-year-old leave this month, with the Spaniard said to be on the lookout for a new striker.
Given the fact that Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out-of-contract in the summer, an exit for Aubameyang would certainly suggest they are in the market for a new forward.
However, former winger Pennant believes that a move to fellow Premier League side Newcastle could be perfect for Aubameyang.
The Magpies are currently involved in a relegation scrap in the league, though their recent takeover has meant they have plenty of money to spend on transfers.
They have already signed former Tottenham defender Kieran Trippier and Burnley forward Chris Wood and are said to be in the market for more additions this month.
Talking to BestofBets.com, Pennant discussed Aubameyang as a potential Newcastle signing and said: “Having been stripped of captaincy, there’s rarely a way back so the sooner Arsenal can agree a transfer, whether it’s loan or permanent, the better.
“Aubameyang is still a great player so this could be a chance to get another big move off the back of this and also a chance for Arsenal to make some money out of a transfer, which rarely happens.
“As mentioned previously, I do think Newcastle could be a great move for Aubameyang; yes, they’re currently struggling in the league but considering there are funds available to prop up the team, this could be a wise move for him and from Arsenal’s point of view, Newcastle has the money to pay for someone like Aubameyang.
“But equally, if the Saudis are ready to move forward with a deal, that may be the best for now as at least there’s one thing less to worry about seeing that chances are, he’s going.”
It remains to be seen if there is a way back into the team for the Gabon striker, who has made an early return from the Africa Cup of Nations amid health concerns.
The January transfer window could be a big part of his future, with reports claiming there are deals on the table, while Arteta needs a forward for the future that he can start next season.
