Newcastle United are hopeful of landing Joe Willock after agreeing a price for the England Under-21 midfielder.
Chronicle Live reported earlier today that Arsenal had set an asking price of £25million for the player with full details of how the deal is structured yet to emerge.
But after Newcastle and the Gunners held serious discussions on the deal, Steve Bruce is hoping he can get his man in time for the weekend's clash with West Ham.
Sources in the capital tonight have told us that the two clubs are close to agreeing a deal.
However, the hurdle of agreeing personal terms with Willock is still to overcome for the Magpies.
Willock was taken out of Arsenal's squad for the 1-0 defeat at Spurs today and Mikel Arteta's stance on him changed after the game.
Throughout the summer he has referred to Willock as an "Arsenal player" and indicated he could stay but deep down he knew if the price for the midfielder was met he would be on his way.
Arteta remained coy about the subject in his post-game Press conference.
He said: "Joe, we will explain the reasons (why he wasn't in the squad) when we can. When I can say more I will let you know."
Steve Bruce, who has made no secret of his desire to sign Willock since the end of last season, said: "We’re still hopeful we can get our main target - I’ll try my utmost to make it happen.
"I'd love to make a signing before West Ham."
Newcastle are finally hoping to break their summer transfer duck and ease the tension on Tyneside.
If Willock agrees to the move he will travel north in the next 24 hours and would face a medical early in the week.
