Newcastle are handed boost in their bid to sign top target Joe Willock as they finally open talks with Arsenal over a £20m deal for the midfielder who impressed on loan last season
- Joe Willock has been Newcastle manager Steve Bruce’s number one target
- The midfielder enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Newcastle last season
- Arsenal offered him as a potential makeweight in bid for James Maddison
Newcastle United have opened negotiations with Arsenal over a £20million deal for Joe Willock.
The 21-year-old midfielder has been manager Steve Bruce’s number one target throughout the summer after his impressive loan spell last season.
Willock had hesitated over the decision while Arsenal had also offered him as a potential makeweight in their bid for James Maddison at Leicester City.
Newcastle have opened negotiations with Arsenal over a £20m deal for Joe Willock
Talks are ongoing with Newcastle working within a limited budget.
They will now park offers for other midfielders as they concentrate on a deal for Willock.
However, Tottenham’s Oliver Skipp remains a late option on loan
The 21-year-old midfielder has been manager Steve Bruce’s number one target
Bruce is desperate for new additions ahead of the new season but the club’s prospective sale means owner Mike Ashley is reluctant to invest heavily.
Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe is also wanted on loan but the Old Trafford club are understood to be asking a £5m loan fee.
It is understood the lack of transfer progress is also frustrating players well aware they need to strengthen to avoid another flirtation with relegation.
