Finally, Arsenal’s Willock completes Newcastle transfer for £25m, as Odegaard nears Real Madrid exit

Premier League side, Newcastle, have officially announced the signing of Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock on a permanent deal.

This is just as Arsenal and Real Madrid are said to be closer to reaching an agreement on Martin Odegaard.

Willock, the 21-year-old, late Friday, signed a six-year contract at St James Park, costing a reported £25 million.

Willock enjoyed an excellent loan spell at Newcastle in the second half of last season, scoring eight goals in 14 Premier League appearances.

The talented midfielder picked up the Prem Player of the Month award in May for his outstanding efforts on Tyneside.

Speaking to Newcastle’s official website, Willock said: “I’m buzzing to be here.

“I loved my time here last season and I’m really happy to be back and to be a Newcastle United player.

“Leaving Arsenal is obviously a big step – and I’d like to thank everyone involved with the club for all their support over the years.

“But this is the right move to the right club at the right time for me.

“I only got one chance to play in front of a smaller number of Newcastle fans as a home player last season, so I can’t wait to step out in front of a packed St James’ Park and experience that atmosphere.

“Come on, you Maggies!”

Willock will wear the No28 at Newcastle this term after sporting the number during his loan spell.

The player will not, however, be ready for the club’s opening match of the English Premier League (EPL) kick-off on Sunday as he was not registered in time.

Willock made 78 appearances for Arsenal after coming through the ranks at London Colony, winning the FA Cup in August 2020.

Commenting, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce added: “I’m absolutely delighted to secure out number one target.

“We have had to be patient and persistent, but it has been worth the wait to bring Joe back.

“I want to thank Lee Charnley in particular for the work he has put in to make the deal happen.

“The club have gone above and beyond to make it possible.

“Joe is a wonderful young player with all the attributes you want in a midfielder, and he certainly proved that during his time with us last season.

“This is a move I know our supporters really wanted us to make – and I know they will join me in giving Joe a very warm welcome back to St James’ Park.”

Meanwhile, Norway’s captain, Martin Odegaard is set to make a permanent return to Arsenal after his initial six-month loan spell, last season.

Prominent Spanish tabloid, ‘AS’ says that in the last few hours of Friday, Arsenal and Madrid have come closer to reaching a deal. This time, he would go to the Emirates Stadium for good.

The move could be completed shortly.

Arsenal would pay Real Madrid just over £40million to keep Odegaard.

The footballer, according to the newspaper, is delighted with this. He has reportedly given his approval and he is waiting for his departure to be completed, something which could happen in the coming hours.

‘AS’ says that, despite all parties being willing to this, there are still certain aspects to negotiate. That is why there is still nothing official.