Report: Newcastle hope Arsenal change mind over Rob Holding again

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Newcastle United have seemingly not given up all hope of signing Rob Holding this summer, with The Sun on Sunday (20/9; page 57) reporting that the Magpies are waiting to see if Arsenal change their mind over the centre-back once again.

Holding has enjoyed an interesting summer so far. Sky Sports reported in August that the Gunners man was in talks with Steve Bruce’s side over a potential loan.

TalkSPORT even suggested that a deal was agreed and set to be announced within days. However, Holding remains an Arsenal player at this point.

And the 25-year-old has not missed a minute for Mikel Arteta’s side since. Arteta confirmed after the win over Fulham on the opening day that he had told Holding that he was not going anywhere this summer.

But Newcastle are seemingly hoping that that stance may yet change.

The Sun on Sunday (20/9; page 57) reports that the Magpies are still keen on Holding and hoping Arsenal make another u-turn.

The report claims that Newcastle even found a home for Holding while talks were previously taking place.

TBR View: Arsenal loaning out Holding looks incredibly unlikely, but not inconceivable

At this stage, it would be a big surprise if Arsenal did decide to loan Holding out. He has made a promising start to the campaign, with a particularly impressive display at Craven Cottage.

But perhaps it would be naive to rule out a move entirely. Once everyone is fit, Holding will have a lot of competition for a place in the side.

And if Arteta has plans to strengthen the squad further, he may decide that he is willing to listen to all reasonable offers that come in for his players.

But there is surely no question that the smart money would suggest that Holding will be staying put rather than moving to Newcastle in this window.