Arsenal should demand Freddie Woodman if Newcastle eye Joe Willock talks

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Joe Willock appears to have left the door open to extending his stay at Newcastle United beyond his initial loan spell this week, with the Arsenal loanee suggesting that he would love to remain on Tyneside (via club’s YouTube channel).

His loan to St James’ Park looks set to be a crucial one for his career. He managed to make just two Premier League starts this term before leaving the Emirates.

His move has presented him with the chance to prove what he can do as a regular starter. And he has done well in a Magpies side that is struggling for form.

His performances however, have arguably not yet done enough to make Arteta rue the decision to loan him out.

So perhaps the hint he dropped on his future this week could actually present Arsenal with an opportunity.

Of course, the chances of Willock staying at Newcastle will largely depend on whether Steve Bruce’s men stay up.

But if they do manage to keep their heads above water and do come calling about a permanent move, Arsenal should be open to reaching an agreement – and use the talks to try and get a reported target to move in the opposite direction.

The Athletic reported in January that the Gunners enquired about Freddie Woodman. Of course, they would ultimately end up signing Mat Ryan on loan.

The report noted that their interest in Woodman was registered after the date in which Newcastle could recall the goalkeeper from his loan at Swansea.

Woodman and Willock in similar positions with their parent clubs

Woodman arguably finds himself in a similar position to Willock. He is showing potential. But his pathway to the first-team is blocked right now.

If Martin Dubravka and Karl Darlow remain at the club much longer, Woodman will surely have to consider a move.

And if Arsenal decide to not keep Ryan and signed Woodman, he would likely find himself higher in the pecking order at the Emirates than he would had he stayed put.

If Willock is the player who can make a first-team impact next season, Newcastle may not be against using Woodman as part of a bid for the Arsenal man.

And if Arteta is not convinced that Willock is needed at the Emirates, he may welcome the chance to accept a bid that sees Woodman arrive.