KEY POINTS

  • Joe Willock is nearing a buyout that will transfer him to Newcastle
  • Arsenal could get a boost in the chase for James Maddison with the Willock deal
  • Willock is likely to become a starter for head coach Steve Bruce next season

Newcastle United saw what Joe Willock could do last season on loan, so it comes as no surprise they want him back at St. James Park.

This time, however, it will not be on loan but permanently. The Magpies have reportedly come to terms with Arsenal to secure the services of the 21-year-old midfielder.

Both sides have reportedly agreed to a fee of more than £20 million ($27 million), but personal terms have yet to be finalized, The Athletic reported.

Once closed, he would be Newcastle United’s first big signing for the summer.

Joe Willock of Arsenal
Joe Willock of Arsenal Getty Images | Julian Finney

Willock scored eight goals in 14 matches with the Magpies last season. He joined the club during the second half of last season on loan and did just enough to endear him to Steve Bruce.

That includes setting a new record by becoming the youngest player to score in seven consecutive games. That outing led to Bruce making it known that he would try to do everything to secure Willock’s signing.

Willock did return to the Emirates Stadium in the preseason, but the English midfielder was left out in the Gunners’ match with Tottenham, Sky Sports reported.

It was at this point where speculation grew that Willock appeared to be headed out.

Willock is a product out of Arsenal’s academy. He joined when he was only four years old. In a Gunners uniform, the English footballer made 78 appearances and accumulated 11 goals.

But with no guarantees of getting ample playing time with the Gunners, a move to St. James Park would make more sense for Willock.

Socially distanced celebration: Leicester's James Maddison adhered to new protocols on goal celebrations after his strike against Southampton
Socially distanced celebration: Leicester's James Maddison adhered to new protocols on goal celebrations after his strike against Southampton POOL / Tim Keeton

For the Gunners, it could also provide them a boost in their chase for James Maddison of Leicester.

Arsenal needs to find a way to raise funds, and the Willock sale could aid that need.

Maddison is reportedly open to the idea of joining Arsenal. But after spending £50 million ($69.36 million) on Ben White, there are questions if they could still afford to pull off a deal for the 24-year-old midfielder.

A way to get it done is for Arsenal to offer cash-plus-players. No names have been mentioned, and this would also depend if there is any Gunner that Leicester City is interested in.

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