Leeds ‘set sights on signing Joe Willock’, Newcastle exit lined up
Leeds United are among a number of Premier League clubs who have set their sights on a deal for Newcastle midfielder Joe Willock this month.
That is according to former Man United and Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 26-year-old would be a good fit for Daniel Farke‘s style of play.
Willock was an unused substitute in Newcastle’s dramatic 4-3 win against Leeds on Wednesday night, and his lack of playing time could push him towards an exit.
This comes after Football Insider revealed in November that Willock would be open to leaving Newcastle should the right offer come along to lure him away.
Farke is aiming to strengthen his Leeds squad in their battle against relegation, and the former Arsenal midfielder is believed to be among their targets.
Leeds set sights on Joe Willock after Newcastle news
Brown first told Football Insider in May that Willock could be allowed to leave Newcastle amid interest from Crystal Palace, as he remains on the fringes of Eddie Howe’s squad.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that the midfielder is now firmly on Leeds’ radar as they aim to improve in January.
“Joe Willock is a good player, but he’s not playing regularly at Newcastle,” he told Football Insider.
“It makes sense for him to move on, and there is interest from a few clubs. I think Leeds would be a good fit for him and the type of player he is.
“He’s busy, a willing runner, good on the ball. Leeds could always do with a player like that.
“They’ve turned things around lately but they’re still in a relegation battle, so if they can improve their squad in any way, it’s something they’ll be looking at.
“The manager wants reinforcements, and if Willock does become available, it’s something that might work for everybody involved.”
Harry Wilson update emerges at Elland Road
Willock is not the only player Leeds have targeted to improve their squad in January, as they remain big admirers of Fulham’s Harry Wilson.
Wilson’s deadline day move to Leeds fell through during the summer, but the Peacocks now look likely to miss out once again.
Brown told Football Insider that Wilson is attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs, with his recent performances placing him on the radar of top sides.
The 28-year-old has just six months remaining on his contract at Fulham, and has a combined ten goals and assists in 19 Premier League appearances this term.
Wilson scored as Fulham drew 2-2 with Liverpool, and again in their 2-1 win against Chelsea last time out, and has established himself as an important part of Marco Silva’s plans.
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