Your latest Newcastle United transfer digest for August 31.
Maitland-Niles race
Ainsley Maitland-Niles has previously been linked with a move to Newcastle United during Steve Bruce's time in the dugout. Now, talkSPORT claim the Magpies have 'joined the race' to sign the versatile Arsenal star ahead of Thursday's night.
Injuries for both Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey are not said to have changed the Gunners' stance on allowing the England international to depart. The Mirror claim Arsenal would prefer a permanent deal for the 25-year-old, but the imminent deadline means a loan agreement is perhaps more likely.
READ MORE: Newcastle United 'still looking' as Eddie Howe quizzed on final hours of transfer window
Maitland-Niles has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Emirates Stadium, although the club do hold an option to extend this by a year. Given Newcastle's current injuries, the former Roma and West Brom loanee could provide cover in both midfield and at full-back.
Bakayoko latest
Forgotten Chelsea outcast Tiemoue Bakayoko emerged as a shock link to the Magpies in recent days. The midfielder is in the second year of a loan spell at AC Milan, but the Serie A giants are said to be keen to end the agreement early for the 28-year-old.
Now, Sky Sports Italia via Football Italia claim Bakayoko is pushing to agree a mutual termination of his Blues contract in order to seal a deal at St James' Park. The former Monaco star has spent just a season in English football following his £40 million transfer in 2017.
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