Willock set for Newcastle return as Magpies agree fee

James Holland
Joe Willock

Newcastle United have agreed a fee with Arsenal to sign former loanee Joe Willock, according to The Athletic.

The Englishman excelled during a loan spell towards the end of last season.

He scored eight goals in just 14 appearances to help Newcastle finish 12th in the table.


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Willock has been Steve Bruce’s top target ever since and it looks like a permanent transfer will finally go ahead.

The Athletic say that a fee in excess of £20million has been agreed between the two clubs.

Newcastle now need to finalise personal terms with the 21-year-old midfielder.

He was absent from Mikel Arteta’s squad for Arsenal’s 1-0 friendly defeat to Tottenham on Sunday.

When asked about Willock after the match, Arteta told reporters: “With Joe [we] will explain the reasons when we can.

“It’s all I can say now. When I can say more I will let you know.”

Willock is a product of the Gunners’ academy, although he hasn’t been a regular starter in recent campaigns.

Between September and January, the player featured just seven times in the Premier League.

It seems he has decided to move on so he can become a guaranteed starter at St James’ Park.

In July, Bruce seemed frustrated with Arsenal for refusing to negotiate a deal for Willock.

He said: “With Arsenal, what are they going to do? They’ve brought in two midfield players.

“That’s our starting point, with Joe, because let’s be fair, he had an unbelievable three or four months with us.

“But there has to be a time where we know – is it going to be yes or no?

“There has to come a time when there’s a cut-off, and we have to find out what’s happening.

“We’re still trying our utmost, whether it’s on loan or to buy him. We’re still trying.”

The manager is operating with a strict transfer budget this summer. Despite this, Newcastle have decided to spend big on Willock after seeing his brilliant impact on the side last term.

It’s hoped that he can continue his magnificent form in 2021/22.