Report shares Arsenal’s Joe Willock stance amid Newcastle interest

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Arsenal have reservations about loaning Joe Willock to Newcastle United in the final hours of the January transfer window, according to a report from the Daily Mail.

The Magpies are keen to take Willock – who earns £20,000-a-week, according to Spotrac – on loan for the rest of the season. It is suggested that the 21-year-old wants to play more having struggled for game-time with the Gunners this term.

However, it appears that Arsenal are not sure about letting the academy graduate leave. According to the Daily Mail, they have reservations about loaning him out.

And that is because they are in the process of letting Ainsley Maitland-Niles go for the rest of the season.

The Mail notes that Newcastle, West Brom and Southampton have enquired about taking Maitland-Niles on loan. It is the latter who reportedly find themselves in pole position currently.

TBR View: Willock in difficult position

A loan move could certainly be beneficial for Willock at this stage of his career. And heading to Newcastle – who reportedly view Willock as their top target – could arguably be a good move for him given the stature of the club.

However, Arsenal’s stance is understandable. He is not playing much right now, and it may be a gamble to stay. But he is being named in Arteta’s squads on a regular basis.

And with the Europa League starting up again next month, Willock may be in line for more game-time – particularly if Maitland-Niles does indeed seal a loan exit.

So it will be very intriguing to see how the final couple of days of the window play out. Newcastle will certainly hope Arsenal’s stance changes.

And Willock may perhaps have a similar feeling.