Steve Bruce has admitted Newcastle United will look at the possibility of taking Granit Xhaka on loan in January.

After Xhaka’s dispute with the fans and his subsequent delay in returning to the team, the rumours have started to emerge of a possible exit in January.

Unai Emery told the media it was Xhaka’s decision not to play against Leicester on Saturday, and reports suggest he’s told the club he would prefer to leave in the winter window.

It seems likely Arsenal would want to sell permanently if they do move him on, but Newcastle boss Steve Bruce was asked about the possibility of bringing in the player on loan. Bruce admitted it was something they’d consider given their current problems in midfield.

“We have six centre-backs and three right-backs but are a bit short in midfield areas, so we’ll have a little look at that,” Bruce said. “You are always looking to add that bit of quality, so we’ll see if we can.”

Again, it doesn’t seem hugely probable Arsenal would look to send their former captain out on loan. Xhaka is at a great age for a prospective buyer, entering his peak years, and he’s got a huge amount of experience in Europe’s top leagues.

A fresh start away from the Premier League is probably what’s best for him if he leaves. Somewhere he can have a clean slate in a team more suited to his strengths.

You never know though. Stranger things have happened than an out-of-favour Premier League midfielder joining another English club on loan to stay sharp without uprooting his life completely ahead of the Euros in the summer.