Premier League rivals Arsenal and Newcastle United are considering a potential big-money move for Bayern Munich star Leroy Sane, according to a report.
The Gunners spent in the region of £70m on five signings this summer, including making David Raya's deal at the club permanent, while also bringing in Riccardo Calafiori, Mikel Merino, Tommy Setford and Raheem Sterling.
In terms of outgoings, Mikel Arteta's side bid farewell to Mohamed Elneny and Cedric Soares following the end of their contract terms. Emile Smith Rowe, Aaron Ramsdale and Eddie Nketiah were sold to Fulham, Southampton and Crystal Palace, respectively.
Newcastle, meanwhile, had a much quieter summer than many expected but did manage to secure the signatures of Lewis Hall from Chelsea and William Osula from Sheffield United.
Both clubs have made solid starts to the 2024-25 Premier League season and it seems they are set to lock horns off the pitch this year in their pursuit of a highly-rated winger.
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Gunners to rival Magpies for Sane signature
GiveMeSport have revealed that the Gunners and Magpies are both interested in the services of Bayern Munich attacker Leroy Sane and are plotting a potential "big-money" move for the German international in the next 12 months.
The report adds that Arsenal, who secured Raheem Sterling on a loan deal from Chelsea in the final moments of the summer transfer window, view Sane as a potential longer-term option in the wide areas.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are believed to be looking to bolster their squad after offloading Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh for a combined £65m to adhere to financial regulations.
However, it is understood that one potential complication in either club getting a deal done is the German's current wages, which is reportedly set at £325,000 per week.
If the Gunners were to match his current earnings, Sane would become Arteta's highest-paid player, while Eddie Howe's side would struggle to maintain financial compliance unless they sell one or more of their existing stars.
The 28-year-old attacker has a proven track record in the Premier League, contributing to 54 goals in 90 appearances during his time at Manchester City.
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Sane move hinges on Bayern talks
While Arsenal and Newcastle remain keen on securing Sane's signature, the situation is complicated by the player's impending contract negotiations with the Bavarians.
The 28-year-old is set to enter talks with the Bundesliga giants, but there have been several reports suggesting that Bayern are unwilling to match the financial terms he currently enjoys.
This impasse could create an opportunity for the Premier League sides, though the outcome will largely depend on how the negotiations between Sane and Bayern develop in the coming months.
However, Vincent Kompany has already started planning for the future, with emerging talents like Michael Olise stepping into key roles, and the combination of potential new signings and Sane's wage demands may lead to Bayern considering parting ways with the winger, especially if Arsenal and Newcastle continue their pursuit.