During his half-season on Tyneside, Willock scored eight goals in 14 games – including a club record equalling second in seven, the same as Toon legend Alan Shearer.
Head coach Steve Bruce made Willock his number one transfer target this summer but had to be patient before the Gunners decided to cash in on their academy graduate.
Pundits and former professionals such as Darren Bent and Rio Ferdinand quickly slammed Arsenal for offloading Willock.
Bent, speaking to talkSPORT, said: “For Arsenal, it was the worst decision.
"I don’t know how Arsenal have let Joe Willock go. The guy scores goals from midfield man. I really like him.
"I don’t understand that. Newcastle have done unbelievable well to get him by the way, I think he’s a really good talent."
However, Howey has gone against the popular opinion, insisting Arsenal were right to sell Willock to his former club.
He told This Is Futbol: “I think Arsenal have got a good deal. Yes, he is a prospect but he wasn’t featuring in Arsenal’s team.
“To get £20million for someone who didn’t really get in their team, I think Arsenal have done well. It’s good business.”
Willock made his second Magpies debut at Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon, playing a full 90 minutes as Bruce’s side lost 2-0.
We’ve gathered the best of today’s Premier League speculation below…

. MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JULY 31: A detailed view of the Nike Strike Aerowsculpt Official Premier League match ball is seen prior to the Pre-Season Friendly match between Manchester City and Barnsley at Manchester City Football Academy on July 31, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Nike Strike Aerowsculpt Official Premier League match ball. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images) Photo: Lewis Storey

. Everton keen on Cunha
Everton are the latest club to enter the race to sign Hertha Berlin star Matheus Cunha amid links with Leeds United. (Sky Germany) (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images) Photo: Maja Hitij

1. Everton keen on Cunha
Everton are the latest club to enter the race to sign Hertha Berlin star Matheus Cunha amid links with Leeds United. (Sky Germany) (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images) Photo: Maja Hitij

2. Andone on verge of exit
Brighton striker Florin Andone has arrived in Cadiz to tie up his return to Spanish football. (Various) (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images) Photo: Nathan Stirk

3. Albion in for Cucurella
Brighton & Hove Albion have triggered the release clause in Marc Cucurella’s contract at Getafe. (Cadena COPE) (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images) Photo: Francois Nel

4. Rice rejects West Ham offer
West Ham star Declan Rice has turned down a third contract offer at the club. Manchester United are said to be keen on signing him. (The Times) (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) Photo: Ian MacNicol