Newcastle United’s hopes of signing Joe Willock hinge on Aston Villa’s move for ‘lovely footballer‘ Emile Smith Rowe.
According to Northern Echo, the Geordies have a lesser chance of signing the midfielder if the Croydon-born ace moves to Villa Park.
Smith Rowe was subject to a £25m bid from the Villains just last week amidst talks over a new deal.
It’s being reported that the Gunners are confident about extending the player’s contract, which has just two years to run.
The Magpies are reportedly willing to include Freddie Woodman in any deal to sign Willock
Arsenal are in the market for a number two goalkeeper this summer after Mat Ryan’s loan spell ended.

TBR View: Report over Newcastle United’s hopes for Willock will leave the club sweating
The latest report that Newcastle United’s hopes over signing Willock will leave the club sweating.
It seems that Villa’s chase for Smith Rowe is very real as the Gunners look to ward off interest in the attacker. And you can’t see the north London giants letting both players leaving this summer.
Willock’s performances towards the end of last season was a clear sign that the youngster should be signed this summer.
However, if Arsenal do choose to retain the academy player then it will leave the club fearing the worst.
They will need to target a new player, and after watching Willock scored in seven Premier League games in a row, that will be tough.
Aside from his performances on the pitch, the 20-year-old made a telling impact off it. The social media activity of Newcastle players last season hinted that Willock had settled in nicely in the northeast.
Willock’s all-around impact on the St James’ Park outfit was sensational last season. It makes the wait over whether the club can sign him or not all the more nerve wrecking.
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