Overview
- Football Insider reports Newcastle are prepared to field January bids for Joe Willock, with any sale dependent on lining up a midfield replacement.
- Newcastle’s pursuit of AZ Alkmaar teenager Kees Smit is accelerating, and creating squad space and minutes is seen as key to any move.
- The Telegraph has reported Crystal Palace are exploring a January approach after tracking Willock since the start of the season.
- Multiple outlets say Newcastle aim to recoup roughly the £21m paid in 2021, a fee viewed as helpful for profitability and sustainability rules.
- Willock has slipped down the midfield hierarchy after summer additions, though he impressed in a rare start during the 2-1 Champions League loss at Marseille.