Luke Edwards has claimed that Newcastle United are now willing to pay the asking price required in order to sign Joe Willock in the summer transfer window.
The Lowdown: Willock a priority
Willock is reportedly the priority target for the St James’ Park outfit in this transfer window after impressing in his loan spell in the northeast from Arsenal in the 2020/21 season.
The Englishman scored eight goals in 14 Premier League games while playing for the Tyneside club (Transfermarkt), playing a big part in them climbing away from the relegation zone towards the back end of the campaign.
The Latest: Edwards on Willock
Writing in his latest piece for The Telegraph, Edwards has claimed that Steve Bruce’s side are now willing to pay the asking price set by the Gunners in order to sign Willock on a permanent deal, which is believed to be in the region of £22m.
However, there is reportedly a ‘growing sense’ that the 21-year-old is having ‘second thoughts’ over any potential permanent move, which may disrupt any further talks.
The Verdict: Pay the money!
Willock made such a difference to Newcastle last season that they need to do everything that they can to sign him permanently, including paying the reported £22m fee.
Alan Shearer described the central midfielder as ‘brilliant’ during his loan spell, which is such high praise from a bona fide Toon legend, and the fact that they have made no new signings so far means that they really need to get a move on.
In other news, find out which Premier League club has agreed a fee with this NUFC target