Newcastle United appears to be moving closer to another midfield departure, with Joe Willock’s future potentially entering its decisive stage a few days before the summer transfer window closes.
The Magpies have been prepared to move Willock throughout the summer, with the 27-year-old entering the final year of his contract and seemingly outside Matthias Jaissle’s long-term plans.
Besiktas has emerged as the most persistent suitor, although its previous offer fell significantly short of Newcastle’s
valuation. Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Saturday that the Turkish club has formally submitted a bid for Willock — without undisclosing the figures — placing the decision of his sale entirely in Newcastle’s hands.
“Besiktas have submitted a bid to Newcastle for Joe Willock as top target in midfield,” Romano reported. “Decision up to Newcastle.”
The timing of Romano’s report suggested Besiktas’ offer could be the same as previously reported by Turkish outlet Spor Depor. That bid was worth a meager €7 million (£6 million) guaranteed plus another €5 million (£4.3 million) in potential add-ons.
The offer, however, seems to be on par with Newcastle’s €20 million (£17 million) valuation of Willock. That’s according to Nicolo Schira, who reported on Sunday morning that Willock has already agreed personal terms for a contract through 2030 with Besiktas, with the Magpies’ answer to the bid expected to arrive today.
“Agreement in principle for a contract between 2030 between Joe #Willock and #Besiktas, which have offered €20M to #Newcastle to close the deal and to sign the midfielder,” Schira reported. “Expected #NUFC’s answer in the next hours.”
Should Newcastle have demanded more money from Besiktas in exchange for Willock? Are the Magpies doing the right thing by selling Willock without having landed any extra midfielder? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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