Newcastle United are reportedly buoyed by the fact Emile Smith Rowe has signed a new contract with Arsenal.
The midfielder has committed his future to the Gunners, despite transfer interest from Aston Villa.
Smith Rowe has penned a new long-term contract, and also been handed the number 10 shirt previously worn by Mesut Ozil.
Clearly, Arsenal see him as a central to their plans for the future.
Newcastle fans may be wondering what this now means for the club’s pursuit of Joe Willock
Pretty much everybody wants the 21-year-old back at St. James’ Park, including manager Steve Bruce, after he scored eight goals in 14 games on loan last term.
According to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie, the Magpies are now hoping the Smith Rowe contract news will accelerate their move for Willock.
Smith Rowe plays a similar role to Willock, and arguably is big competition for his fellow Englishman at the Emirates Stadium.
Smith Rowe new contract the catalyst for Newcastle’s Willock pursuit?
This could indeed now potentially open the door for Newcastle to land Willock.
He is undoubtedly a threat to regular minutes at Arsenal for Willock.
There’s a chance he’ll be looking at the situation and thinking about leaving.

Really, Newcastle need to strike whil the iron is hot.
Although there hasn’t been talk of any other clubs, there’s always a chance someone else could come from out of the blue.
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