Newcastle hope to seal Joe Willock transfer after Emile Smith Rowe signs new Arsenal contract
NEWCASTLE hope that Emile Smith Rowe committing his future to Arsenal can help them sign Joe Willock, according to reports.
The Toon recruited Willock on loan in January, with the Gunners starlet impressing at St James’ Park.
He scored eight goals in 14 games for Steve Bruce’s side, with the Newcastle boss eager to sign him up again for the 2021-22 season.
But negotiations so far have been frustratingly slow.
According to Sky Sports, however, Bruce hopes that Smith Rowe signing a new ‘long-term’ deal at Arsenal will convince the North Londoners to let Willock go.
Smith Rowe impressed for Mikel Arteta‘s side last season, making 33 appearances in total.
The 20-year-old was subject of strong interest from Aston Villa earlier this summer.
Dean Smith’s side had bids of £25million and £30m turned down by Arsenal.
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And with any transfer speculation now put to bed by Smith Rowe’s contract, things could now start to speed up for Willock.
Bruce has admitted that he’s ‘badgering away’ to sign the 21-year-old again.
Willock has made 78 appearances for boyhood club Arsenal, but found himself struggling for game time in the Premier League last season, prior to his temporary Tyneside stint.
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