Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed he let hot prospect Isaac Hayden move to Newcastle because he did not want to stagnate the 21-year-old's football career.
Hayden, who was a part of the Gunners' youth ranks for three years, spent last season out on loan at Hull. But Wenger has not been able to find a spot for him in his Arsenal squad and decided it would be for the best if the centre-back moved on.
"He couldn't get the chance here and I decided to let him go and have an opportunity," Wenger was quoted saying on Red London.
"At 21 years of age, you need to play or you stand still ” and if you stand still you waste your career.
"He's very intelligent and very good physically as well, he has good strength. I think Newcastle is a good opportunity for him."
Since Hayden's departure to Newcastle, Arsenal have confirmed the signing of defender Rob Holding from Bolton, who is delighted to have signed for the club.
New club, new number for our new man#WelcomeRob pic.twitter.com/C5s9wk2VNh
"it's a massive club [Arsenal] to have signed for. It's something you dream of as a kid, so I can't wait to get started," Holding told Arsenal's official club website.
"I was over the moon - I couldn't believe [Arsenal's interest] it at first because of the size of the club. It was just a long way to get it done and get down here."
Holding is Arsenal's third signing this summer after midfielder Granit Xhaka and forward Takuma Asano.