Newcastle United are yet to commence talks with Kieran Tierney despite increasing talk he is high on Eddie Howe's wanted list.
Howe batted away any hints on names at his Press conference on Friday, but insisted that some of the players on his wish-list fit into the marquee bracket. Tierney would be one of them but sources at the Arsenal end have made it clear that any discussions on a move to St James' Park are yet to take place.
Tierney was scouted extensively by Newcastle before the takeover and even back then was interested by the prospect of a move from Celtic to Newcastle before Arsenal swooped for £25million. After falling out of favour with the Gunners, Tierney would now command a fee of £30million and would bolster Newcastle's left-hand side significantly.
Tierney's representatives are set to hold talks with the Gunners before contacting serious bidders for the full-back. And United look like they will be one of the clubs getting a call.
READ MORE: Newcastle United offered departing Spurs star Lucas Moura
Yet Newcastle aren't alone when it comes to interest in Tierney with Arsenal and Manchester City also watchers of the left-back. Yet United would have the edge over Villa with their Champions League card to play in talks, while he would be guaranteed to be first choice on Tyneside and could potentially form a deadly full-back duo with Kieran Trippier.
Tierney has been used as a substitute on several occasions this year and his Arsenal career seems to have come to a crossroads. Despite a clutch of clubs interested in the full-back he knows all about Newcastle are hearing positive reports from the likes of Scotland boss Steve Clarke and assistant John Carver.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have offered Paul Dummett a deal according to Howe. The head coach said on Friday: "I hope we can come to an agreement with Paul and he will stay for next year.
"I think he is a vital part behind the scenes of our success this year."
However, Howe indicated he expects to move on returning midfielders Jeff Hendrick and Isaac Hayden after loan stints at Reading and Norwich City respectively.
READ NEXT
- Saudi company in running to become new Toon sponsor
- Eddie Howe pays special tribute to Newcastle United fans who stuck with team through 'dark days'
- Newcastle poach key member of staff from Leicester
- United to get 8,000 tickets for Rangers away day
- Eddie Howe well aware of what Newcastle's lofty finish means ahead of next term
