The young midfielder made a massive impact after arriving on loan from Arsenal partway through last season, and the Toon Army’s efforts to lure him back to Tyneside in the coming months could prove to be one of the sagas of the transfer window.
But John Barnes is less than optimistic about his side’s chances of wrapping up a deal.
“I watched him a couple of times for Arsenal before he went to Newcastle, and every time he started or came off the bench, he’s done well, and I’ve always liked him – and they like him a lot,” the former Newcastle and England midfielder told bettingodds.com.
“He needed the experience, and he wanted to play, so it was a great move for both himself and Newcastle by heading there on loan, but next year I think he’ll feature more heavily at Arsenal.
“Unless he had such a good time at Newcastle that he wants to stay there permanently rather than stay at Arsenal, but I still think he can give it a go at Arsenal, because Arteta’s playing youth.
“You have Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka, for example, and Willock will be given time and support in that team, so even though things went really well for him at Newcastle, I do believe that he will stay at Arsenal.”
We’ve gathered the best of today’s Premier League transfer speculation below...
1. Grujic set for exit
Porto are closing in on a £15m permanent deal for Liverpool flop Marko Grujic, after the player impressed on loan with the Portuguese giants last season. Clubs from Germany and Italy are also believed to be interested. (Daily Mail) (Photo by Peter Powell - Getty Images) Photo: Pool
2. Reds keen on Pellegrini
Reports from Italy suggest Liverpool have moved to replace outgoing midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, and have made an offer for in the region of £26m for Roma star Lorenzo Pellegrini. He'll be featuring at Euro 2020 for Italy. (Corriere dello Sport) (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images) Photo: Claudio Villa
3. United make Trippier offer
Manchester United have reportedly made an opening offer for Atletico Madrid full-back Kieran Trippier, as they look to beat Arsenal to the ex-Spurs star. However, the alleged £10m offer is said to have been knocked back by La Liga's champions. (Football Insider) (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster
4. Cooper favourite for Palace job
Swansea City boss Steve Cooper have been named the new favourite for the Crystal Palace job, after talks with ex-Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo broke down. Burnley boss Sean Dyche is also among the favourites. (Skybet) (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) Photo: Catherine Ivill