Senior Newcastle United player’s future now ‘uncertain’ as £40m Jacob Ramsey deal nears

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Newcastle United are pushing ahead with plans to strengthen in midfield, with Jacob Ramsey on course to join the club.

With Sean Longstaff joining Leeds United, there has been a need for another midfielder to arrive at St James’ Park. It is a key position for Eddie Howe’s system, with additional depth required in the aftermath of Longstaff’s departure.

Jacob Ramsey could provide that depth, as the Magpies aim to negotiate a deal with Aston Villa. Ramsey could cost £40million, with the 24-year-old very keen on a move to the North East.

If a deal is completed, he will be Longstaff’s direct replacement within the Newcastle United squad. However, his potential arrival could have an impact on Joe Willock.

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What Jacob Ramsey’s potential Newcastle United move means for Joe Willock

In terms of bodies, Ramsey would replace Longstaff at Newcastle United. However, his skillset is more comparable to Willock’s. He can travel with the ball and be a creative outlet. In that respect, Ramsey could replace Willock too.

According to the Athletic, Newcastle United see Ramsey as a long-term successor to Willock and someone who can challenge Joelinton for a place in the starting XI.

The Athletic add that Willock’s Toon future is ‘uncertain’, with his contract running until the summer of 2027. However, they state that the 25-year-old is not expected to leave the club during the current transfer window.

The former Arsenal player is in a difficult position right now. Injuries have stunted his progress in black and white, while his performances when fit last season often left a lot to be desired.

The situation is complicated further by Willock suffering another injury during pre-season.

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When Joe Willock could return from injury

Willock has not featured since the pre-season defeat to Team K League, and will miss Newcastle United’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday.

When he went down in that game, there were initial fears that he was set for another lengthy spell on the sidelines.

That is not the case, but Willock is still set to miss a portion of the 2025/26 season with a calf issue.

The Athletic add that the Magpies’ number 28 is due to return before October.

Newcastle United play nine games in all competitions before 1st October, including two in the Champions League. Willock will be keen to be involved in those fixtures, having missed the majority of the Magpies’ previous European adventure during the 2023/24 season.