Bernd Leno is close to leaving Arsenal this month, with Newcastle United a potential suitor, according to reports.

Football.London report that Mikel Arteta has told Bernd Leno he can leave Arsenal this month, with the goalkeeper closing in on an exit.

Newcastle United are one of the clubs in talks with Leno, with the goalkeeper hoping to move on and earn more minutes ahead of the World Cup later this year.

Arsenal have been strongly linked with New England Revolution goalkeeper Matt Turner over the past day or so, and ESPN report that this move would allow Leno to depart this month.

ESPN add that sources have informed them Newcastle could be a potential destination for the player, who has also been linked with a move back to Germany.

The Athletic report that Leno wants to leave Arsenal to play more regularly, and he may be granted a move if Turner joins.

90min wrote on Thursday that Newcastle were interested in Leno, discussing a loan deal with an obligation for a permanent signing if they avoid relegation.

This is no big surprise. Leno lost his first-choice spot to Aaron Ramsdale earlier this season, and he even stopped playing in the cup games following the defeat to Nottingham Forest earlier this month.

On Thursday, Leno wasn’t involved in the League Cup squad due to an injury, but he likely wouldn’t have played even if he had been fit. A move makes sense if Arsenal can secure a replacement.