The Southampton full-back would be a far better option for Newcastle United than the Arsenal star.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Magpies boss Rafa Benitez has an extremely busy transfer window ahead of him, if he is to build a squad capable of enjoying a successful Premier League campaign next season.
If reports are to be believed, the Spaniard is keen on bringing Gunners left-back Kieran Gibbs to St James’ Park during the off-season, with the Chronicle claiming that Newcastle are willing to match Arsenal’s £15 million valuation of the 27-year-old.
The Toon could be making a huge mistake in signing Gibbs, however, who has displayed nothing other than a ‘coasting’ mentality throughout his career at the Emirates.
Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs in action
With this in mind, Benitez would be better off in pursuing Southampton full-back Ryan Bertrand, who has displayed all the qualities that Newcastle will need next term, if they are to avoid relegation.
Gibbs has lacked character and any kind of fight over the past half-decade, which has shown through with his perceived happiness at warming the bench, whilst Nacho Monreal has held down the starting left-back spot at Arsenal.
Bertrand, on the other hand, has proven his total commitment to the cause during his time on the south coast, and his athleticism combined with his superb final delivery could prove to be such a great asset for the Magpies.
Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand with Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs
The Saints would undoubtedly be adverse to losing one of their best players to a team who will more than likely be in direct competition with them next season, but they have proven throughout the years that they are nothing if not a selling club.
And if Newcastle truly want to progress as a team next season, the addition of Bertrand, rather than Gibbs, will be of paramount importance.
Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand
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