Reuters
Newcastle United are said to be hoping to offload a player who has played in every Premier League game for the club so far this season. Joe Willock has been facing an uncertain future since the summer, when he drew interest from abroad, but he ultimately stayed put, and it seems as though Matthias Jaissle is happy to have him.
Willock has played in all five of Newcastle's Premier League games so far, also appearing in their two Carabao Cup games. Those appearances have come in the form of three starts and two substitute appearances.
But Willock is out of contract next summer, and it doesn't appear likely the 27-year-old will be offered a new contract, at least not as things stand. Willock attracted an offer from Türkiye in the summer, with Besiktas making advances, but the Magpies opted to reject at least a couple of offers, with the second of those reported to have been worth more than £10million.
Willock's Premier League stats this season
Goals: 2
Expected Goals: 0.9
Shots per game: 2
Pass success: 94.5%
Tackles per game: 1
According to Football Insider's Pete O'Rourke, Besiktas remain interested, and Newcastle could move to sell in January to ensure they get some cash for the midfielder, who has been with the club since his £25million move from Arsenal in 2021.
"I think Joe Willock could potentially move on in January because that will be Newcastle's last chance to cash in on him due to his contract situation at St James' Park," O'Rourke said. "Besiktas were quite hopeful of signing him in the summer window and their interest remains ahead of January."
Newcastle United's Joe Willock
Premier League - Arsenal v Newcastle United - Emirates Stadium, London, Britain - May 18, 2025 Newcastle United's Joe Willock reacts REUTERS/David Klein
Newcastle would likely have to accept a lower offer than they received in the summer for Willock, given Besiktas or any other interested club know the midfielder is out of contract next summer. The Magpies face the very real threat of losing him for free, and they just might.
There is every chance Willock refuses to go to Türkiye and decides to see out the season before moving on for free. The former Arsenal star is able to agree a pre-contract agreement with any club outside England from January 1, and realistically speaking, he can give an English club his word before the end of the season. Willock is likely to have offers in the Premier League, especially given he is still proving he can be productive at Newcastle this season.
Jaissle's praise for Willock
Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle looks on
Speaking in September, Newcastle boss Jaissle said: “Joe [Willock] is doing an excellent job. Since we joined, already in pre-season, you saw that there is potential.
“He is really important, especially when he is scoring…Not only Willock but the whole team, how they believe in each element of the game. In terms of mentality we are really pleased.”
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