Newcastle manager Steve Bruce has admitted that he’d love to bring Joe Willock back to St James’ Park but the decision is ultimately in Arsenal’s hands.
Few predicted that Willock would have such a profound impact at St James’ Park, but after netting seven times in seven games for the Magpies towards the end of last season – from midfield it must be added – he’s given Arsenal a transfer decision to make.
The Gunners missed out on European football for the first time in 25 years last season and are desperately looking to fill the creative void left by former loanee, Martin Odegaard.
Willock has had his fair share of game time at the Emirates but never produced numbers like he did for the Magpies, so, it’s up to Arsenal to decide whether or not he can come up with the goods in red next year.
That being said, Newcastle have always made it clear that they’re keen on signing him permanently, something that was recently re-affirmed by Bruce.
"As I’ve said, it’s really Arsenal’s decision, and until Arsenal make a decision – a bit like all the big clubs, they have a look over pre-season – we’ll keep monitoring and badgering away,” he said, via NUFC Blog.
“ We’d love to do something but it’s still Arsenal’s call.”
Whilst Willock’s revival could indicate that he’s ready to step-up for Arsenal, the Gunners are still looking for another creative midfielder to help share the burden with Willock’s fellow Hale End graduate, Emile Smith Rowe.
Edu has already tried and failed to sign Emiliano Buendia this summer whilst the Gunners are also reportedly interested in bringing James Maddison to north London but his expensive fee is proving to be a huge stumbling block.
However, now that Willock has showed he can consistently play at a high-level, fans will be hoping that he can help solve Arsenal’s creative woes.
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