Steve Bruce admits he’d love to keep Joe Willock from Arsenal next season

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Arsenal starlet Joe Willock is a wanted man this summer by Steve Bruce, with the Newcastle boss admitting he’d love to keep the Gunners youngster.

Willock has made a huge impression since arriving on loan in January. He’s scored three goals, including two match-winners which have probably secured Newcastle’s Premier League future.

The 21-year-old was allowed out on loan by Mikel Arteta in January. After struggling to get into the Arsenal first-team, Willock opted for a switch to Newcastle to get game-time under his belt.

And Bruce, speaking in his press conference today, has made no secret of his desire to keep hold of Willock if he can.

“Listen he wants to be in the team, but he’s got three goals for us and two big ones, particularly the one last week,” Bruce said.

“You could see he was elated and delighted for the team. He’s a young lad. I would love to keep him here. Obviously we will have big discussions with Arsenal but he’s young, fit and athletic, He is only 21 and has a big, big future.”

Willock could well be open to leaving himself. Chances at Arsenal seem to be at a premium and Mikel Arteta is thought to want to add even more new faces to the ranks this summer.

TBR View: Willock might be best served moving but may have a choice

The issue Newcastle have here is that because Willock has done well, there’ll now be a clamour to sign him if he’s available.

That is a win win situation for Arsenal of course. But for Steve Bruce, it will represent a bit of a problem.

However, Bruce has got some good form out of Willock and the midfielder might want to repay that faith. Especially if he’s going to continue to be a regular for the Toon Army.