Arsene Wenger is keen to replace the veteran German following
his departure for VfB Stuttgart, as he is left with only Manuel
Almunia and Lukasz Fabianski to guard the Gunners goal.
Almunia was solid last season, although his clutch shot-stopping
left something to be desired, while Fabianski is tipped as one for
the future.
Hence, Wenger is seeking a top-notch No. 1 this summer, and
News of the World claims that Given is right at the top of
the Frenchman’s wish-list.
The Republic of Ireland has long been recognised as one of the
Premier League’s most outstanding goalkeepers, but recent injury
problems and a chronic lack of defensive cover has left his Toon
career in a somewhat underwhelming middle-ground.
The 32-year-old could be open to change of scene, and Wenger would
be more than happy to accommodate that by way of a ₤3.5million bid
for the former Blackburn man.
With Steve Harper proving himself a reliable understudy and Dutch
youngster Tim Krul tipped as one of the most promising young
keepers in Europe, Magpies boss Kevin Keegan may be to let Given
end his 332-game career at St. James’ Park.