After a tough start, Joe Willock has settled in brilliantly at Newcastle United following his move from Arsenal. Now he could be reunited with one of his best friends from his Arsenal days.
That is because Newcastle are reportedly looking at signing Reiss Nelson. The 23-year-old is currently a free agent after his Arsenal contract expired at the end of June.
The Magpies have reportedly held talks with Nelson’s representatives about moving to St James’ Park. However, there is still a very strong possibility that he remains at the Emirates, with the Gunners offering him a new deal.
Nelson enjoyed some real breakthrough moments under Mikel Arteta last season, but will be hoping to play more regularly.
He might not get that at Arsenal, meaning a fresh start elsewhere might be best for his career. He could get that at Newcastle, where his close friend Joe Willock has taken his game to the next level.
Joe Willock now thriving at Newcastle
The midfielder was incredible on loan in 2021, earning a permanent move for £25million that summer. It then took a while for him to settle, with Willock admitting that he initially found it difficult after swapping London for Tyneside.
But now he is thriving, and will surely make his England debut in the next 12 months.
Willock is loving life at St James’ Park, and it could get even better if Nelson joins him in the North East. They were very close at Arsenal, with the winger even admitting that he was nearly reduced to tears following Willock’s move to Newcastle.
What Nelson said about Willock after he joined Newcastle
Speaking to the Chronicle in 2022, one year after Willock left Arsenal, Nelson discussed how he really felt when he was separated from his close friend.
“It was weird at first,” he said.
“My locker is right next to his locker so the day he was going, I had a little lump in my throat. I felt like I wanted to cry.
“I had to get used to not seeing him there the next day and the day after when we had come through together.”
The pair clearly have a very strong bond, and that could strengthen Newcastle’s bid to sign the free agent.
Obviously staying at Arsenal would see him remain and challenge for honours with his boyhood club under an exciting young manager, but it is unclear how big a role he will play.
Willock took the plunge two years ago, and will not regret his decision to join Newcastle. He has massively improved under Eddie Howe, and has been given the stage to show what he is capable of.
The same could happen for Nelson, who has a very big decision to make.
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