Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock is attracting interest from Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas, with his future at St James' Park uncertain. The 26-year-old former Arsenal star has just one year remaining on his current contract, forcing the Magpies to consider all offers for squad players.
Willock's Preference to Stay
Willock's preference is to remain on Tyneside and fight for his place under manager Eddie Howe. However, with the club needing to balance finances and squad depth, a departure cannot be ruled out. Besiktas, who finished fourth in Turkey last season, are reportedly keen on signing the midfielder as part of their summer rebuild after luring Arsenal hero Leandro Trossard for £15.3m.
According to sources, a three-year contract is on offer for prospective new signings at the Istanbul club, but Newcastle have yet to receive a formal bid for Willock.
Recent Form and Impact
Willock scored and won a penalty in Newcastle's 3-0 pre-season friendly win over Darlington at the KNOX last week. With the squad short on midfielders due to injuries and departures, the next few weeks are seen as an opportunity for him to impress Howe and secure his place.
At the end of last season, Willock shut down talk of a summer exit by referencing his plans to stay with the Magpies four times in an interview with the club's TV channel. He said: "People are going to the World Cup, and some people are having a break. From there, have a break but full focus on coming back next season and coming back in the best possible way and look to next season."
Looking Ahead
After a poor campaign last time around, Willock believes Newcastle can come out stronger in the 2026/27 season. He added: "This season has brought us closer together. We have had to dig deep at certain times in the season. It has been quite difficult some days but next season it is going to be good. It has been a big learning curve and next season we can push on and put things behind us."
The coming weeks will be crucial for Willock as he aims to prove his worth to Howe and secure his long-term future at the club.
