According to the Athletic, Arsenal plan to hold talks with reported Newcastle target Joe Willock when the player returns from holiday.
The midfielder enjoyed an incredible loan spell at St James’ Park, scoring eight goals in 14 appearances.
Willock was a revelation, and Steve Bruce is desperate to bring him back. According to the Chronicle, Newcastle are confident of re-signing the 21-year-old.
And it looks like Arsenal are taking steps to find a replacement.
According to the Athletic, the Gunners have made an offer for Albert Sambi Lokonga.
He’s a 21-year-old Belgian centre-midfielder, currently playing for Anderlecht.
They have reportedly offered £13million for the youngster.
However, HLN claim that Arsenal’s opening offer has been rejected. Despite turning the first bid down, Anderlecht are reportedly resigned to losing Lokonga – but only at the right price.
Do Arsenal’s midfield plans include Joe Willock?
It doesn’t look like there is a place for Willock at the Emirates.
Mikel Arteta seems intent on rebuilding his midfield, with Matteo Guendouzi, Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira also linked with leaving.
Meanwhile, they are reportedly interested in Wolves ace Ruben Neves.
While Willock probably proved a lot of people wrong at the Emirates over the past few months, perhaps his style isn’t what Arteta is looking for.
But he’s exactly what Newcastle need. He revitalised the Magpies after his arrival in February. He added goals to the midfield, and took the pressure off of Callum Wilson’s shoulders.
It’s been reported that Willock will cost around £20million, and with Steve Bruce seemingly set for an increased transfer budget, perhaps there is a decent chance of the midfielder returning.
However, it seems as though we’ll have to wait a little longer with Willock still yet to hold talks with Arsenal about his future.
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