Newcastle United transfer news: Burnley lead race for Toon star, Club could be forced to sell Magpies target

Steve Bruce’s men look to be staving off the threat of relegation with ease after a long spell in the doldrums, and are now nine points clear of the drop zone after their 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday.

Next up for the Magpies is a clash against struggling Arsenal, and on current form, they might just fancy their chances of getting one over on the Gunners.

One man who won’t be involved in the clash, however, is Joe Willock.

The midfielder, who has been the hero in the each of the Toon Army’s last two outings, will be ineligible to face his parent club on Sunday.

But speaking to BT Sport, former England defender Rio Ferdinand has urged Newcastle to do their level best to make his move to the north east permanent this summer.

He said: “You know what, I like Joe Willock.

"He’s someone at Arsenal that I would have kept. He’s a good young player.

“If Arsenal don’t take him back and have him around that squad… I don’t know, man.

"I really like him and I like his personality. He’s not shy to come on the big stage and play and perform.

“And the last three goals he’s scored have been massive goals for Newcastle. It shows he’s got the temperament."

The 21-year-old has scored four goals in the league since signing for the Magpies in January.

We’ve gathered the best of today’s Premier League speculation involving Newcastle United and their top flight rivals below...