Newcastle United’s midfield could undergo another significant change before the transfer window closes, despite Joe Willock making an immediate impact in Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Liverpool.
The 27-year-old came off the bench to score Newcastle’s second goal, but his contractual situation makes it hard to believe he’ll remain in tow past Sept. 1. Willock is playing through the final year of his deal, and Besiktas has spent much of the summer attempting to take him to Turkey, with a deal nearing
agreement.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle is prepared to accept an offer for Willock, but only after Matthias Jaissle has sufficient midfield depth to sanction his departure.
“Newcastle United will accept an offer for midfielder Joe Willock if they can secure a replacement,” Football Insider reported.
According to the report, Newcastle is “actively” searching for another central midfielder, with the completion of an incoming transfer described as the trigger that would allow Willock to leave.
“The Magpies have no intention of allowing the former Arsenal man to run that contract down and ultimately leave on a free transfer next summer,” Football Insider reported.
That stance arrives with Newcastle already completing a major midfield addition, having agreed a £47 million (€55 million) fee plus £3 million (€3.5 million) in add-ons with Manchester City for Nico Gonzalez.
Meanwhile, Besiktas remains determined to complete the deal. Fabrizio Romano previously confirmed the Turkish club had submitted an official bid, while Fanatik reported that Newcastle has lowered its asking price from €23 million (£20 million) to €20 million (£17 million), making it easier for all sides to agree to a deal.
The two clubs, nevertheless, still remain a bit apart on Willock’s valuation, with Fanatik reporting that Besiktas only wants to pay a maximum of €15 million (£13 million), including bonuses, for the midfielder.
“The Black and Whites want to finalize the deal for a maximum of €15 million, including bonuses,” Fanatik reported.
Willock has reportedly already given Besiktas a preliminary “yes” and asked Newcastle to reduce its demands. The Magpies also have some additional time because Turkey’s transfer window closes three days after England’s market shuts.
Should Newcastle accept €15 million for Willock before landing another midfielder, or is that too little for a player who just showed his value once again against Liverpool? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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