Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin wants his club to sign Joe Willock, after developing a close relationship with the Arsenal loanee.

Newcastle United's Joe Willock celebrates scoring his side's first goal of the game during the Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture date: Saturday April 24, 2021. Copyright: Clive Brunskill
Newcastle United’s Joe Willock celebrates scoring his side’s first goal of the game during the Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture date: Saturday, April 24, 2021. Copyright: Clive Brunskill

After Joe Willock scored his fifth goal in five games, against Manchester City last Friday, it was no real surprise to see Steve Bruce once again singing the midfielder’s praises and suggesting Newcastle United will hold talks with Arsenal for him this summer.

It’s not just the manager who wants Willock back, though. 24-year-old teammate Allan Saint-Maximin also hopes to see the Arsenal man rejoin Newcastle in the upcoming window.

“We have to buy more players like Joe, he can be really great for the team and for myself,” Saint-Maximin said. “My relationship is really good with Joe inside and outside the pitch, and you can see how that helps a team when you have players like that.”

It’s certainly looking more and more likely Arsenal will face a fight to convince Willock to stay in North London this summer – if that’s what they want to do.

The 21-year-old is popular with his manager, with his teammates, and with the Newcastle fans. If he wants to play for a club that really value him, he’s found one. But growing up with Arsenal, it’s very possible he still wants to make it with his boyhood side.

It’s likely it will largely depend on Arsenal’s stance as well. If they’re willing to cash in and reinvest, a move could suit everyone. If they believe they’re better off holding onto Willock, they may not be open to negotiations anyway. It’s hard to say at this point.