Joe Willock’s days at Newcastle United seem to be counted as January approaches, with the midfielder entering the final months of his contract without an extension despite establishing himself as a regular under Matthias Jaissle.
Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu has now reported that Besiktas has agreed personal terms with Willock’s representatives ahead of another attempt to sign the 27-year-old in January.
According to the report, “Besiktas have reached an agreement over personal terms with Willock’s
representatives” and intends to return with a proposal once the January transfer window opens.
Besiktas tried to sign Willock during the summer but failed to reach an agreement with Newcastle, which was understood to value the midfielder at around £17 million to £20 million.
The situation is different now, as Willock’s contract expires at the end of the season and NUFC faces losing him for nothing. The situation also allows him to agree to a pre-contract with clubs outside England from January if Newcastle does not extend his deal or sell him.
Jaissle, however, has made clear that he wants Willock to remain on Tyneside beyond this season.
“He’s a top, top player,” Jaissle said. “He can deliver an unbelievable performance, and I see even more potential with him, so we are happy that he’s here.
“You can definitely imagine (an extension happening). How highly I’m talking about him. So there’s not a worry from our side.”
The latest Turkish report will surely increase the pressure on Newcastle to resolve Willock’s contract situation before Besiktas can formally move again in January.
Should Newcastle offer Willock a new deal now, or cash in before potentially losing him for nothing next summer? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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