Report: Arsenal boss Arteta likely to retain Willock in blow to Newcastle

By Muhammad Nisar

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is likely to retain the services of Joe Willock in a big blow to Newcastle United, according to the Northern Echo.

The Magpies were reportedly keen on signing the Englishman after his successful loan move last season. Reports claimed the Gunners were demanding £30m for the talent. However, links have died down in recent weeks.

Today’s update is a bitter blow to Newcastle boss Steve Bruce, who spoke of his keenness to sign the 21-year-old.

The publication is saying that Arteta has been left impressed by the ace since his return to pre-season. He will be used for the majority of pre-season, with his displays determining his future.

Arsenal need to retain Willock

Arsenal need to retain Willock as the midfielder provides a different option in attack.

Letting him join Bruce’s side in the North East would have seen the Gunners lose one of their only goal-scorers from midfield.

Willock scored eight times for the St James’ Park outfit, including in seven Premier League games running. It was more goals than Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny and Dani Ceballos combined. Even more than starlet Bukayo Saka.

Meanwhile, his pace and power to carry the ball through the thirds make him a dangerous asset. It was on full-show during the win over Fulham back in May, where the youngster carried the ball from within his own half before scoring.