The Gunners graduate has been a fringe player under manager Mikel Arteta this term and he has made just one start.

Ahead of the New Year, he is already contemplating his future and Northern Echo claim that the Magpies are keen on him.

Eddie Howe 's side bolstered their squad over the summer, but they are planning a mid-season spending spree too.

They are unlikely to meet the Gunners' £50 million asking price for Smith Rowe , but could propose a different solution.

The Tyneside outfit could make an initial loan approach for the 23-year-old with an option to buy at the end of the season.

If Smith Rowe were to leave Arsenal , the club are likely to pursue a suitable replacement with Premier League experience.

Wolverhampton Wanderers' Pedro Neto could be a realistic target. Arteta has been his admirer since his breakthrough at Braga.

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