Arsenal could be set to hand Chelsea a transfer boost by simply keeping hold of Joe Willock at the Emirates.
The 21-year-old impressed whilst on loan with Newcastle United last season and even broke a Premier League record as he became the youngest player to score in seven consecutive games, as the Magpies finished the season strongly.
Because his short spell was such a success, it’s no surprise that Steve Bruce wants to sign him on a permanent basis, or at the very least, have him return to the north east on a season-long loan deal.
However, Mikel Arteta made it clear that Willock is part of his long-term plans at the Emirates after the Gunners’ 2-1 pre-season loss to Hibernian earlier this month.
“Joe is part of our plans, he's our player and in the time that he is here we will try to make the most out of him,” he told football.london in his post-match press conference.
With that transfer decision now clear, along with reports that Newcastle may not be able to afford Arsenal's valuation, the Magpies could turn their attention to Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley, who is out of favour at the club.
Despite returning to Stamford Bridge for pre-season training after spending last season on loan with Aston Villa, it is clear that Barkley is not a key part of Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea vision and the club would be willing to negotiate for his potential sale.
According to a report from the Athletic, whilst Newcastle are still interested in bringing Willock back to St James’ Park, the club also hold an interest in Barkley, as well as another of Chelsea’s young talents, Conor Gallagher.
So, should Arsenal stand firm on Willock and keep hold of their man, that may well lead Newcastle to head down the Chelsea route - thus handing them a potential transfer windfall.
Although he has endured a couple of rough seasons, Barkley is still valued at £18million, via transfermarkt, meaning his sale will provide the Blues with a healthy financial boost to fund new signings, including their number one target, Erling Haaland.
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