Leeds United chief executive Angus Kinnear has suggested Newcastle United could be taking a big risk with Joe Willock.
The midfielder is now expected to return to St. James’ Park after it was reported yesterday that an agreement had been reached between the Magpies and Arsenal.
Sky Sports have reported the fee to be in the region of £25 million.
In the eyes of Kinnear, that kind of money for Willock makes the transfer a bit of a risk.
Speaking about his own club, he said (via The Square Ball): “If we can work at the level before they get to £20/£25 million [that’s ideal].
“Because buying English players for £20 million or £25 million who really still haven’t properly delivered in the Premier League – Nketiah, Willock.
“Both are fantastic talents, but they are big bets to put on players to deliver immediately in the Premier League.”
Newcastle are getting a brilliant deal
No Willock still hasn’t properly delivered, but Newcastle are not really putting a ‘big bet’ on him.
He has already shown what he brings to the side and how much he improves the midfield.
Not only did he score eight goals for the club, but he also showcased fantastic work-rate.
Arguably, Willock would actually have been a very good addition for Kinnear’s club Leeds, given their status as one of the fittest, if not the fittest teams in the Premier League.
For an English player who has such a well-rounded game as Willock does, and factoring in how far off his peak he is, Arsenal could easily have demanded much more.
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