According to The Pitch Prospect, Newcastle have rejected a £20m bid for Joe Willock at Fulham.
The former Arsenal midfielder has struggled to establish himself as a regular at St James’ Park in recent years.
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Willock is believed to be interested in a move to west London, although the Magpies are hesitant to sanction a departure so late in the window without finding a replacement.
His current contract expires in June 2027, meaning this could be one of the last remaining opportunities to capitalize on a player they bought for £25m in 2021.
The 26-year-old has only started seven times in all competitions under Eddie Howe this season but showed what he can do in the club’s final game.
Willock scored the equalizer in an impressive 1-1 draw against European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the French capital.
The Englishman moved to Newcastle after an explosive loan spell from Arsenal during the 2020/21 season.
Willock scored in seven consecutive Premier League games, equaling a club record set by the legendary Alan Shearer.
However, the following four seasons were interrupted by persistent injury problems.
In Newcastle, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali have also developed into one of the strongest midfield trios in the top flight.
At Fulham, Willock would be reunited with a number of Hale End graduates from his time in the Gunners academy – which has become something of a trend for Marco Silva’s side.
Emile Smith Rowe and Alex Iwobi are both key players for the Cottagers, while Reiss Nelson was on loan at Craven Cottage from Arsenal last season.
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‘It’s difficult’
Willock recently admitted that things have been difficult for him at Newcastle recently after opening his account for the season on Wednesday.
“It’s been a long time and it’s been hard for me,” Willock said.
“I’ve had difficult moments, but I’ve always persevered and done well in training. I give my best in everything I do.
“Thank God this moment has come. I’m just looking forward to the next game in this competition. I’m thrilled.
“At this moment I thank God for scoring my first goal. Hopefully I can score many more.”