Arsenal sent midfielder Joe Willock to Newcastle United on loan in January, and the young Englishman became a massive star at St James’ Park.
The 21-year-old scored on his debut for the Magpies against Southampton. He was fairly quiet in his next six games but exploded in April. He ended the season with seven goals in as many consecutive games and set a new Premier League record by doing so.
Newcastle fans absolutely love Willock and would love nothing more than to see him signed on a permanent deal. Magpies boss Steve Bruce has been very vocal about his desire to bring him back as well, but he is set to be disappointed this summer.
Newcastle target Joe Willock set for Arsenal stay
Football London have revealed today that Mikel Arteta wants to keep hold of Willock next season. It is claimed that the Arsenal boss has him in his plans for the years to come, and that is a huge boost for the young midfielder.
The one hope that Newcastle still have is that Arsenal haven’t completely ruled out selling Willock. The report claims that Arteta wants to keep hold of him, but if an offer that’s impossible to turn down is tabled by a club, the Gunners could agree to let him go.
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That will excite Newcastle supporters, but there’s no way Mike Ashley will let them spend something ridiculous like £40 million on Willock. That makes it very likely that the youngster will stay and fight for a place at the Emirates next term.
Keeping hold of Willock is the right decision
Arsenal will be extremely short of options in central midfield next season. Dani Ceballos has gone already, and Granit Xhaka is set to follow him soon. Ainsley Maitland-Niles is likely to be sold as well, which leaves the Gunners with just Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny in the middle of the park.
A new midfielder will surely be signed this summer and he is expected to slot right next to Partey. However, just one new player will not be enough for the whole season. That should open the door for Willock, who fully deserves his chance.
The 21-year-old was outstanding for Newcastle in the final few games of last season. He showed that he is ready to play at the highest level, and he proved that he can grab goals against the biggest sides in the country as well.
Arteta’s right to keep hold of Willock and hopefully, the Englishman can deliver when he gets a chance next term.
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