**Joe Willock Signals Desire to Leave Newcastle as Club Eyes Summer Target**
Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock has reportedly informed manager Eddie Howe of his desire to leave the club this summer, following the Magpies’ confirmation of their primary transfer target. The 25-year-old, who joined Newcastle from Arsenal for £25 million in 2021, has struggled for consistent game time, prompting speculation about his future at St James’ Park.
Willock’s tenure at Newcastle has been a mixed bag. Initially a key figure in the side that secured Champions League football in 2022-23, his dynamic box-to-box play and goal-scoring flair won fans over. However, injuries, including hamstring and Achilles issues, limited him to just 14 appearances last season, and his form has been inconsistent since. Sources indicate that Willock’s frustration stems from his inability to secure a regular starting spot, with Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, and Sandro Tonali often preferred in midfield. A recent report from The Athletic highlighted growing frustration among Howe’s coaching staff over Willock’s lack of impact, particularly after a poor showing against Fulham following a promising cameo against Wolves.
Crystal Palace have emerged as frontrunners to sign Willock, viewing him as their top summer target. The Eagles believe Willock’s power, pressing ability, and Premier League experience make him an ideal fit for their system, offering the regular minutes he craves. With Willock’s contract running until 2026, Newcastle are open to offers but would demand at least £25 million to consider a sale, especially as they look to balance their squad and comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Meanwhile, Newcastle have confirmed their focus on signing Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as their primary summer target. The versatile winger, valued at around £60 million, is seen as a key addition to bolster Howe’s attacking options, particularly with uncertainties surrounding other players like Osula. The club’s £100 million transfer budget may require player sales, with Willock, alongside names like Martin Dubravka and Matt Targett, among those potentially on the move.
Despite Howe’s preference to retain Willock, as noted in a June 2025 post on X by @geordiejosh, the midfielder’s desire for regular football could force Newcastle’s hand. As the transfer window approaches, Willock’s future remains a key storyline, with Palace ready to pounce and Newcastle aiming to reshape their squad for another Champions League tournament
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