£25m ace says he had Arsenal offer on table in summer, but chose Newcastle

Add as preferred source on Google

Joe Willock has told The Athletic that he had an offer from Arsenal to extend his contract at The Emirates in the summer. Of course, the midfielder chose to join Newcastle United for a fee of £25million (Sun).

Last season, Willock joined Newcastle on loan in January from Arsenal. It came after the England Under-21 star struggled for game time under Mikel Arteta – being used more often in the Europa League and cup competitions.

He hit the ground running at Newcastle – scoring a huge eight goals in 14 Premier League appearances. He guided the Toon away from a relegation scrap, which looked incredibly perilous at one point.

It convinced Newcastle to spend big and sign him permanently, signing him for £25million but his form has since dropped off. Speaking to The Athletic, Willock says Arsenal offered him a new deal but he chose Newcastle.

“I sat down with Arsenal, was honest about my situation,” Willock said. “They were really good with me. We had a conversation about signing another contract but I wanted to play. I loved Newcastle, that was the best option.”

Willock on Arsenal offer: Newcastle star made the right decision

That is, despite a lack of form since his permanent move. Willock has been unable to add to his eight goals this season, with no goal involvements in 17 appearances during the 2021-22 campaign.

But he was right to go. Martin Odegaard has been signed permanently, Emile Smith-Rowe is improving with every minute he plays and Alexandre Lacazette can now play as a 10. Willock was right to go, despite his form.