Newcastle join race to bring former Arsenal midfielder back to England - L’Équipe

According to reports in France, Newcastle United are one of three Premier League clubs eyeing Marseille midfielder Mattéo Guendouzi.

This comes from L’Équipe, who claim that ourselves, Aston Villa and West Ham are all considering summer bids to bring the former Arsenal man back to the Premier League.

As things stand, Villa are thought to be the favourites for his signature. Unai Emery brought him to England during his time at the Emirates and will be in the market for another midfielder this summer, with fellow French outlet RMC Sport reporting that a €40m offer is in the pipeline.

He's still only 24 and all-action, offering tenacity off the ball, a good engine and bags of technical ability, but there have been question marks over his attitude in recent years. Not only did he fallout with Mikel Arteta prior to leaving the Gunners, the French international had a row with current Marseille boss Igor Tudor in pre-season.

I can see Guendouzi returning to England this summer, but would be surprised if he ends up at St James' Park based on his history and Eddie Howe's insistence on good characters who won't rock the boat.