Steve Bruce says he would love to sign Joe Willock on a permanent deal.
The Magpies boss has watched on as super sub Willock has earned four points from the last two games with a dramatic equaliser against Tottenham Hotspur and the winner against West Ham on Saturday afternoon.
Willock joined on a loan deal from Arsenal in January after making 72 appearances for the Gunners.
But the 21-year-old, who has now scored three goals during his temporary stay on Tyneside, is keen for more senior action.
The London-born midfielder has two years left of his Arsenal contract and would cost Newcastle around £20million for a permanent move.
Bruce said: "We would love to keep him here.
"He's the type of player you'd love to build your club around.
"Whether it's possible, I am not so sure.
"But he's had a big impact.
"To get a third goal is great for him."
Although, if Bruce did have a chance to buy him, with funds set to be low this summer, he would have to be able to offer him more starts than in the last three games.
Willock has been named on the bench against Spurs, Burnley (unused) and West Ham.
Bruce said: "He will not want that, that's for sure.
"But as a young player he had a really good impact.
"Of course, with a young player you can dip them in and out, he is only 21-year-old.
"He's a hell of a player and a great lad."
