Report suggests Newcastle are pushing to sign Frenchman this summer

Newcastle United are interested in signing Arsenal defender William Saliba on a loan deal this summer.

The young defender was on loan at Nice last season and is expected to leave the club temporarily in search of regular first-team football.

According to FootMercato, the Magpies are currently pushing to sign the 20-year-old centre-back.

Steve Bruce is keen on bringing in defensive reinforcements this summer, and Saliba could prove to be a quality addition.

Newcastle signed Joe Willock on a loan deal from Arsenal last season, and the midfielder was exceptional for them.

The Magpies will be hoping for more of the same if they manage to pull off the signing of Saliba.

The youngster is also a target for Marseille, and he prefers to return to his homeland instead of joining a Premier League club.

However, a loan move to Newcastle would benefit Saliba more than a spell at the Ligue 1 club.

The youngster needs first-team experience in the Premier League if he wants to make the grade at Arsenal.

Saliba is undoubtedly a top talent and has a big future ahead of him.

The Gunners will be hoping that he can fulfil his potential with them in the coming years.