Newcastle United are open to offers for Joe Willock ahead of the January transfer window, with the midfielder’s contract entering its final months and his long-term future at St James’ Park uncertain.
The 27-year-old attracted interest from overseas during the summer, but Newcastle rejected proposals and chose to retain him in Matthias Jaissle’s squad.
Newcastle open to offers for Joe Willock
Football Insider reports that the club could now consider allowing Willock to leave when the transfer window reopens. January may represent Newcastle’s last realistic opportunity to secure a fee if no new contract is agreed.
Besiktas were among the clubs pursuing the midfielder during the summer. The Turkish side reportedly saw an offer worth about £10 million rejected in July before returning with an improved proposal the following month.
Newcastle turned down that approach too, despite Willock having struggled to establish himself as an undisputed starter during his time at the club.
He has nevertheless made an encouraging start to the current campaign, scoring twice in his first five league appearances and receiving opportunities under Jaissle.
Those performances have underlined his value as a squad option, but there is no indication that Newcastle are preparing to extend his contract. The club’s decision in January could therefore be shaped by whether a suitable offer arrives and by Willock’s contractual position.
Besiktas are expected to retain their interest and could make another approach in mid-season. Jaissle had previously held discussions with Newcastle’s players before decisions were made over the squad, suggesting Willock remained part of his plans at that stage.
With no new deal currently on the table, the January window is likely to provide a significant indication of whether Willock’s future remains at Newcastle or lies elsewhere.
