"Someone they'd be interested in" - Keith Downie drops NUFC transfer claim on 6 ft 3 Germany ace

Newcastle United could renew their interest in January target Bernd Leno if they succeed in their bid to avoid relegation, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Magpies currently find themselves in the Premier League’s drop zone and at serious risk of being demoted to the Championship, but the Tynesiders are already putting summer transfer plans in place despite the January window only shutting a matter of days ago.

According to 90min, Newcastle were interested in striking a deal which would have seen Arsenal goalkeeper Leno head to St James’ Park in the final days of the January transfer window.

The report suggests the Magpies held conversations over a loan deal which would have included an obligation to make the switch permanent should they stave off relegation.

Leno was reportedly keen to seal a move away from the Emirates Stadium due to falling down the pecking order with his current employers.

The German, who is valued at £14.4million by Transfermarkt, has not featured in the Premier League since August after seeing summer signing Aaron Ramsdale take his place between the sticks.

Although a winter move failed to come to fruition, respected journalist Florian Plettenberg revealed two Spanish clubs had made enquiries over ending the 6 ft 3 ace’s time at Arsenal and talks were held with Newcastle on two occasions.

It is understood the Magpies told the nine-cap Germany international they would still be interested in striking a deal in the summer.

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Downie believes Leno is still firmly on Newcastle’s radar despite failing to acquire his services last month.

The Sky Sports reporter reckons head coach Eddie Howe, who moved into