Report: Newcastle hopeful of signing £30m player after PL club's latest development

Newcastle United are hopeful that they can lure Joe Willock to St James’ Park this summer, according to reports from Sky Sports.

After months of intense speculation, Emile Smith Rowe has penned a new deal at Arsenal, ending Aston Villa’s all hopes of landing him this summer.

The Magpies are now hopeful that Smith Rowe’s new contract might accelerate their move for Willock.

Steve Bruce, the Magpies boss, said he would “keep badgering away” over a player who impressed for Newcastle on loan last season.

The 21-year-old was deemed well below Arsenal’s standards and was sent on loan to Newcastle in the second half of last season.

After scoring seven goals in seven consecutive Premier League games – a brilliant achievement – Willock’s stock has risen.

The seventh of those goals also equalled Alan Shearer’s mark for goals in consecutive Premier League games for Newcastle.

Arsenal are reportedly demanding a fee of around £30 million and Newcastle have approached the Gunners over the availability of the midfielder.

Chronicle Live reported last month that Newcastle are looking to sign Willock permanently, but his signing would take away a chunk of their transfer budget.

Arsenal may not want to lose a precious talent like Willock and could arrange another loan spell, which might work in Newcastle’s favour.

Meanwhile, Florian Lejeune won’t be at Tyneside next season.

The 30-year-old, who spent last year on loan at Alaves, has completed a permanent move to the Spanish club.