Mikel Arteta insists that Joe Willock will return to Arsenal next season, but Newcastle remains determined to sign the midfielder.
The 21-year-old joined Steve Bruce’s side on the day of the transfer deadline and has become a firm favorite on Tyneside.
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Willock has six goals in his last six games for Newcastle
He has helped them ensure the survival of the Premier League with seven goals, including six in their last six games.
After scoring in Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Sheffield United, Willock suggested he was ready to push for a permanent move to Newcastle.
Arteta has seemed to close the door on the prospect of Willock leaving Arsenal in the summer.
When asked if Willock will remain an Arsenal player next season, the Gunners boss said: “Sure because he has a contract and he will be here. That is sure.
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Arteta was asked about Willock’s future at her press conference on Friday.
“He has the responsibility and the task of going to Newcastle to help them go where they want.
“I spoke with his coaching staff and they are very happy because he was a key part in helping to achieve the goals they had. That is really positive for him.
“I am very happy that things have gone so well for him because of the potential he had. I think it was great for him to go and have a different experience. You have seized that opportunity in a really positive and remarkable way.
“He will come back to us, we will have those conversations with him and we will plan the next few years for him.”
However, that hasn’t deterred Newcastle boss Steve Bruce, who has vowed to test Arsenal’s determination to hang on to Willock.
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Bruce is eager to keep Willock at St James’ Park next season
Bruce said: “We always said he was a double-edged sword, and we have to respect that he is the Arsenal player.
“We will see over the summer if we can test their resolve. Let’s see. As I have said many, many times, I have total respect. Let’s not disrespect Arsenal, he is their player ”.
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