Shock Gunners player swap mooted

Goalkeeper Shay Given has been linked with a move to Arsenal, while defender Philippe Senderos could go the other way to Newcastle.

The News of the World claims that 32-year-old Republic of Ireland international, Given, could move to the Emirates Stadium this summer as a replacement for Jens Lehmann, who departed for his native Germany at the end of last season.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger looked to have settled for Manuel Almunia to be his number one for the new campaign, but it is thought he has been alerted by suggestions that Given is not happy at Newcastle's slow progress in the transfer market and would also like a crack at playing in the Champions League.

Magpies boss Kevin Keegan has previously dismissed claims that Given could be leaving St James' Park this summer, but he may be tempted to let him depart if it would allow him to bolster his backline with Switzerland international Senderos.

The Mail on Sunday claims that a £4million bid has been made for the 23-year-old, who is on the fringes of the Arsenal first team after a disappointing campaign. However a move to Tyneside could help him get his career back on track with some regular action and if the Gunners do want Given then some sort of exchange could be on the cards.