Newcastle United desperately need to re-sign Joe Willock. However, that might not be possible.
The midfielder was a revelation after joining the Magpies in January, scoring eight goals.
He netted seven times in seven consecutive games, equalling Alan Shearer’s record from 1996.
Willock is set to return to Arsenal this summer, but it is unclear what the future will hold.
Steve Bruce has made it clear he wants Willock back. However, money could be an issue. Arsenal reportedly want £20million.
That would make him one of Newcastle’s most expensive signings ever. And in a summer where money is set to be tight, it might be difficult to bring Willock back.
There is also a chance that Mikel Arteta may give him another opportunity at Arsenal.
There are multiple avenues this transfer saga could go down, but already our chances of re-signing Willock seem slim.
Report names three alternatives to Willock
According to the Athletic, the Magpies are already looking at alternatives to Willock.
The report states Newcastle have watched Huddersfield’s Lewis O’Brien, Celtic’s Olivier Ntcham and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher.
Would any of these players be able to fill the void left by Willock?
They’re hardly inspiring, although the same could have been said about Willock when he arrived four months ago.
The 21-year-old added a goal threat from midfield. It ensured we weren’t totally reliant on Callum Wilson.
None of the three players we have reportedly looked at have ever scored as many as Willock in a single season. Gallagher boasts the best tally, scoring six times during a loan spell with Swansea.
Newcastle simply have to find a way of re-signing Willock. Whether that’s selling players to raise funds or agreeing another loan with an obligation to buy, we cannot afford to start next season without our latest talisman.
Sadly, it feels very likely that we’ve seen Willock’s last game in a Newcastle shirt.
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