Chris Waugh has been speaking on Pod on the Tyne about the potential deal to bring Joe Willock to Newcastle United.
It was reported by The Athletic over the weekend that the Magpies had reached an agreement with Arsenal to buy Willock permanently, with the fee set to be around the £20 million mark and the midfielder could make his second debut for the club this weekend if he is signed in time for their opening game of the season against West Ham United.
Should Newcastle sign Joe Willock?
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Willock became a fan favourite during his time on Tyneside with fans chanting that they wanted him to stay during his post-match interview against Sheffield United, which was the only time he got to play in front of Newcastle fans last season.
Speaking on Tuesday afternoon, Waugh gave the latest insight into the Willock to Newcastle deal.
“There have been a few issues to iron out personal terms-wise and I’m told that’s not to do with wages – a few other issues, though, which are taking a bit of time. Just before I came on to record, I’ve had indications that there hopefully has been a breakthrough.
“So by the time the podcast comes out, Joe Willock may even be a Newcastle United player. I do not know, but at this stage, it’s sounding more positive on that front.”
TIF Thoughts on Willock potentially joining Newcastle…
While there appears to be a bit of waiting still to do before Willock officially returns to St. James’ Park, it does look as if it is only a matter of time before a permanent deal is announced, based on Waugh’s latest information.
Steve Bruce has made it no secret his admiration for Willock and how much he would love to have the midfielder back on Tyneside, but to see the club strike up a deal to sign the 21-year-old on a permanent basis will have delighted the manager, who is still yet to sign anyone this summer.
Despite some reports claiming Bruce only has an initial budget of £10 million, the sale of Florian Lejeune for an undisclosed fee and receiving a 40% sell-on clause from the Adam Armstrong sale to Southampton will have certainly buffed up the Magpies’ budget to be able to bring in their number-one target.