Callum Wilson holds key to unlock West Ham deal for 'big character' Joe Willock
Callum Wilson could yet help West Ham secure the signing of Joe Willock while he heads out of the London Stadium.
The frontman appears increasingly likely to step away from the East London outfit as a free agent this summer, with interest building from Coventry and Hull, despite the Irons' offering a new deal.
Wilson's seven Premier League goals in 2025-26 were ultimately not enough to keep Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the division, and they are now facing a rebuild.
They have identified a move for Newcastle midfielder Willock as part of that rebuild, but it is clear that the 26-year-old may need a little nudge from a former teammate.
According to ExWHUEmployee (via WestHamCentral on X), the Hammers' chances of landing the former Arsenal man are "slight," as he would prefer to stay in the North East.
However, with Willock firmly out of favour under at Newcastle under Eddie Howe, the door could yet be open for West Ham if he can be persuaded.
Callum Wilson appears to share close relationship with Joe Willock
Wilson appeared to enjoy his brief time at West Ham, despite the fact that it ended in the bitter disappointment of relegation.
The striker took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message at the start of June, as he expressed his gratitude at being able to wear the Hammers' "iconic" colours, before adding that the fans and the "unbelievable people behind the scenes" deserve better.
The former Newcastle man appears to have gained a positive impression of West Ham despite the on-pitch struggles, and that could be invaluable when it comes to potentially persuading Willock to join.
Wilson and his former teammate appear to share a strong relationship, due to the fact that he publicly shared his love for the midfielder back in February 2025.
The veteran spoke to Newcastle's media team after an FA Cup victory over Birmingham, in which Willock scored the winner, and said: "I'm delighted for Joe. He's a big character in the dressing room, we all love him. We're all supporting him and standing by him."
If West Ham firm up their interest in Willock and try to make a move, then the star is sure to speak to former teammeates who have had a taste of life at the London Stadium.
It is clear that Wilson would have plenty of positive things to say, and that could prove enough to make him a little more open to the idea of leaving Tyneside.
Newcastle ready to cash in on Joe Willock after bust-up
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that Newcastle are ready to let Willock leave this summer.
He started just 10 Premier League games in 2025-26, and exchanged heated words with captain Bruno Guimaraes during his team's win over West Ham on the penultimate weekend of the season.
Brown believes that those two things combined will have the Magpies ready to show him the door, whether that be as part of a permanent or loan deal.
With that in mind, it is already clear that Willock's stance is the only one that West Ham must change if they want to bring him, as Newcastle would be keen to entertain a deal.