If a recent report from iNews is to be believed, Leeds United are closely monitoring Joe Willock ahead of a possible move in the January transfer window. However, the Whites face competition, with Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest also interested should Newcastle United be willing to part ways with the midfielder.

The 26-year-old, a former England youth international, rose through the ranks at Arsenal and made 78 senior appearances for his boyhood club. Despite his promise, Willock fell out of favour under Mikel Arteta and was allowed to join Newcastle United on loan during the second half of the 2020–21 season.

He made an instant impression on Tyneside, scoring eight goals in 14 Premier League outings. That run of form convinced the Magpies to trigger a £25m permanent deal in the summer of 2021. Under Eddie Howe, Willock became an important figure during Newcastle’s resurgence following the Saudi-backed takeover.

Why Newcastle United May Be Open To His Departure

That said, Willock’s role has diminished in recent months following the rise of Lewis Miley in midfield. With Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali firmly established as Howe’s preferred trio in a 4-3-3 system, opportunities have been limited. The summer signing of Jacob Ramsey has further complicated matters, pushing Willock further down the pecking order.

So far this season, most of his 16 appearances have come from the bench, often as a second-half option. As a result, Newcastle may be willing to sanction a January exit if a suitable offer arrives.

Meanwhile, Daniel Farke has steadied the ship at Elland Road. After a difficult start to the campaign, Leeds have found consistency since switching to a back-three system. They are currently unbeaten in six matches and sit seven points clear of the relegation zone at the halfway stage.

How Leeds United Could Gain From Signing Willock

Even so, Leeds’ hierarchy must continue to support the German coach if top-flight survival is to be secured. Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach were recruited in the summer to reinforce midfield options, but the physical and tactical demands of the Premier League mean further reinforcements should not be ruled out.

Club captain Ethan Ampadu has been orchestrating play from deep, while Ilia Gruev and Ao Tanaka have rotated alongside Stach in Longstaff’s absence through injury.

Although the current midfield unit has demonstrated grit and composure, the arrival of Willock would add a valuable creative edge in advanced areas. Naturally a box-to-box ‘number eight’, the Newcastle midfielder is also capable of operating as a ‘number ten’ or on the right side of midfield.