Newcastle reportedly face competition from Monaco to sign Joe Willock this summer.
The Arsenal midfielder is a man in demand, with Steve Bruce making it very clear he wants to bring him back to St James’ Park.
There have been multiple claims that a deal is close and that Newcastle are confident he’ll come back. However, we are yet to see Willock sign on the dotted line.
In the meantime, another club appears to have entered the race.
According to RMC Sport (via GFFN), Monaco are looking at Willock as well.
They claim that talks have been held between Monaco and Arsenal. The Ligue 1 side were interested in Lyon’s Jean Lucas, but are now looking at alternative midfielders.
Reported Monaco interest in Joe Willock should worry Newcastle
Newcastle desperately need to re-sign Willock. The 21-year-old was brilliant last season, scoring eight goals in 14 appearances for the Magpies.
Toon fans need a lift right now, and Willock coming back would certainly bring that.
However, reports of Monaco’s interest is cause for concern.
Unlike Newcastle, and Arsenal for that matter, they can offer Willock European football this season.
Monaco are set to enter the Champions League at the third qualifying round, with a decent chance of making the groups.
They came third in Ligue 1 last season, just five points behind title winners Lille.
Monaco are an exciting team, and apparently it’s a beautiful place to live.
While the North East is great too, you could see why someone would pick the French Riviera instead.
When you compare the two clubs, it’s chalk and cheese. If Willock didn’t have history with Newcastle, a decision to go to Monaco would surely be a no brainer.
But Willock does have history with Newcastle. He enjoyed a fantastic loan spell at St James’ Park, playing the best football of his career.
Hopefully those memories will be enough to bring the 21-year-old back for a second spell.
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