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David Ornstein has dropped a big Newcastle transfer update regarding Joe Willock… 

What’s the talk?

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Newcastle have reached an agreement with Arsenal over a deal in excess of £20m for midfielder Joe Willock. The England under-21 international has been their priority target throughout the window and they are now closing in on their man.

The report claims that personal terms have not been agreed as of yet, with Newcastle now discussing a potential contract with Willock to convince him to make the switch from The Emirates.

Cloud nine

Newcastle fans will surely be on cloud nine following this update from Ornstein, with Mike Ashley splashing the cash to get this deal done. Willock made a huge impression at St. James’ Park during his loan spell last term and supporters will be delighted that he appears set to return on a permanent basis.

The 21-year-old scored a phenomenal eight goals in 11 Premier League starts for Steve Bruce’s side, only Callum Wilson scored more for the club. This shows that he could be a much-needed addition to the team for the 2021/22 campaign, as it alleviates the pressure on Wilson to score all of the goals as Joelinton was the next-top scorer with just four goals in 31 games.

After making his debut for Newcastle last season, Willock was hailed as a terrific athlete and modern-day midfielder by Bruce. He said:

“It was a classic midfield player’s goal from the ability to arrive in the box, and that’s what he’s brought us. He can go box-to-box, he’s a terrific athlete, the kid, a typical modern-day midfield player who has the ability to get up and down the pitch quickly and has that added ability to score a goal.”

Willock also averaged an exceptional WhoScored rating of 7.13 during his time at the club on loan. This was the best score of any Newcastle player in the Premier League last season, suggesting that he was the most consistent, highest quality, performer in the side – ahead of the likes of Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin.

This is why fans will be buzzing to see him return to the club, as they could now get the chance to watch his outstanding displays again throughout the upcoming campaign. Although, it is now down to Willock to prove that he can do it over the course of an entire year and that he was not an 11-game wonder during his time on loan.

AND in other news, Imagine him and Shelvey: NUFC must pounce on chance to land £100k-p/w “match-winner”…

Unsurprisingly, with a £340 million deal potentially just around the corner, Mike Ashley is all in on getting PCP Capital Partners in at Newcastle United, but Shields Gazette journalist Liam Kennedy has told FFC that there is one potential buyer with quite a lot of money behind them that could rival the potential new owners.

The consortium that are attempting to buy Newcastle are the only group to have stumped up the cash and proved they have the sufficient funds to not only buy the club immediately, but also be able to take the Magpies forward.

PCP Capital Partners, which is led by Amanda Staveley, had huge plans to transform Newcastle and not just the club, but also the city and surrounding area which may have changed the way players and pundits viewed the North East.

However, with Newcastle being such a big club historically and many viewing it as a sleeping giant, there is no surprise that other parties are constantly linked with taking over from Ashley. Kennedy has confirmed that there is one other seriously wealthy interested party if the current takeover deal falls through, and he spoke about that potential buyer to Football FanCast:

“You always hear things about potential buyers and I got one put to me about a week ago who has some quite big money and family links, so they would definitely be of interest if it could progress.”

July appears to be a critical month for everyone involved with Newcastle United as the anti-competition case and arbitration are set to come to fruition and with Ashley’s bold statement released on Thursday evening, it will have only stirred things up further.

Speaking to TUTTOmercatoWEB, Turkish football agent Fazil Ozdemir has opened the door for Tottenham Hotspur as they allegedly eye a move for Lille defender Zeki Celik.

The Lowdown: Spurs and Celik…

Last summer, former Spurs boss Jose Mourinho was reportedly eager to sign Celik and the defender himself even opened up on the north London links – stating he had heard of Tottenham’s fondness.

Now, the Lilywhites have seemingly rekindled that interest – with numerous reports over the last fortnight detailing they are eyeing a move.

L’Equipe believe that Spurs are interested in signing the Turkey international this summer.

The Evening Standard went on to back these reports, stating Tottenham have indeed taken a liking to the player and have thus joined the race for his signature, alongside Manchester United and north London rivals Arsenal.

The Latest: Agent opens door…

Speaking to TUTTOmercatoWEB, the player’s agent has confirmed there is interest in the player from all over Europe.

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As well as this, he has opened the door for Spurs to potentially make a move, claiming they will consider a sit down with Lille if a considerable offer arrives from elsewhere.

“He has interest from the big players in Europe, it’s true,” Ozdemir explained.

“Should a great offer arrive then we would sit down with Lille to talk about it.

“He was a key player for the title win.”

The Verdict: Do it Paratici…

After Spurs confirmed the arrival of new football managing director Fabio Paratici, who will oversee the club’s sporting operations from here on in, we believe Celik should firmly be on his agenda this summer.

Winning the 2020/2021 Ligue 1 title with Lille, Celik was indeed a key player and started 28 games under Christophe Galtier.

According to WhoScored, out of Spurs’ squad, only Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (2.6) and Serge Aurier (2.9) averaged more tackles per 90 compared to Celik (2.5).

Another incentive may also be his slender price tag, with the Evening Standard believing he may only cost around £13m this summer.

Aurier is reportedly edging closer to a Spurs exit and Celik may well be his ideal heir at full-back.

In other news: ‘Have now been told’…Alasdair Gold shares transfer development coming out of Spurs, find out more here.

Gabriel Agbonlahor has dropped an upbeat verdict on Leeds United attacking midfielder Tyler Roberts, as reported by Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Leeds United gear up for 2021/22

As Leeds United get their ducks in a row ahead of 2021/22, there is a real sense of intrigue as to how Marco Bielsa’s man will build on their impressive 9th placed finish last time out [SportsKeeda].

Acquiring some high-profile signings would send a real statement to the likes of the ‘big six’, but prioritising the development of younger stars already at the club may also be high up on the Elland Road priority list.

The Latest: Agbonlahor talks up Roberts after contract reveal

In an interview with Football Insider, Agbonlahor seemed to echo this sentiment when talking about Wales international Roberts in particular, after he signed a new contract at the Yorkshire club until 2024 [Athletic], stating:

“He’s the perfect squad player for Leeds.

“He’s not going to start but he’s perfect to have in the squad. They’re right to sign him up.

“He’s not going to kick up a fuss when he’s not starting.

“Yes, his numbers have to get better but maybe after having a year in the Premier League, he will have learnt a lot and will become a better player.”

The Verdict: Roberts needs regular top-flight exposure to maximise his offensive capability

Undoubtedly, the popular ex-pro turned pundit makes an excellent point about Roberts’ contribution in a Leeds United jersey.

In 2020/21, Roberts made 27 Premier League appearances and registered three goal contributions; one goal and two assists [Transfermarkt]. Many of those showings were off the bench though, so we shouldn’t read too much into his end product just yet.

Roberts has also won 14 caps for the Wales international side, further demonstrating his quality on an elite stage [Transfermarkt].

Intelligently, the former Aston Villa striker Agbonlahor also alludes to the fact that the attacking midfielder’s statistics will improve as he gains more exposure to English top-flight football.

With the right coaching – something he certainly has at Thorp Arch under Marcelo Bielsa – Roberts could yet become a key player in the top flight for Leeds.

In other news, Leeds United have been offered the chance to sign an Ivory Coast international. 

Celtic’s first pre-season encounter threatened to disappoint until the fruits of Ange Postecoglou’s labour shone through.

The Hoops endured a nightmare start by conceding after three minutes but the pressing that the Australian is renowned for became greater as the game went on, eventuality prevailing 3-1.

What’s the word?

Wednesday afternoon’s win was the ideal start to Postecoglou’s tenure but you sense as though his opening few months at Parkhead will be judged on transfer activity.

The Bhoys have already welcomed Liam Shaw and Osaze Urhoghide to the club in the last few weeks but they are keen to press on with further acquisitions.

That was the word of the new manager who in his post-match press conference, excitingly revealed that they hope to have some more announcements in the next week or so.

The 55-year-old commented: “We are working on multiple fronts. There are some pretty obvious gaps we have in the squad. They are the areas we are working really hard to find the right players.”

Postecoglou continued: “I know exactly how I want to play and the kind of players we need. So we are looking far and wide. There’s challenges with getting players into the country and doing business so early in the window.

He concluded: “The whole club is working hard and I’m hoping over the next week or so, we have some announcements.”

Ideal news

These are a set of quotes that are likely to leave the supporters at Paradise absolutely elated.

Celtic have started the transfer window in promising fashion and they are in talks to sign a number of players.

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Conversations have reportedly been taking place over the signing of Croatian defender Mario Vuskovic while discussions have been had over Bologna’s Aaron Hickey as well.

Those two players aren’t the only defenders in the crosshairs of Celtic as they aim to improve on a disastrous 2020/21 campaign.

A move for Swedish centre-half Carl Starfelt could be on the cards while Cameron Carter-Vickers is on their radar as well.

This summer, more than any other, Postecoglou needs to complete transfer activity quickly.

They have a number of holes to fill in the squad with Scott Brown departing and loan players heading back to their parent clubs.

The sooner they get new players in, the quicker they’ll be up to speed with the manager’s style. It’s doubly important that fresh faces arrive over the next week so that they’re ready to feature in Champions League qualifying.

At the moment, Celtic could head into that game with Midtjylland without James Forrest who is a doubt. They also have a particular shortage at right-back.

Consequently, Hoops fans should be delighted if they address those areas during the next seven days.

It will be a major boost to their hopes of being in the group stages of Europe’s premier competition next term.

AND in other news, Celtic open talks to sign “unbelievable” 13-goal gem, he may end Christie’s Hoops stay…

Antonio Conte is reportedly in talks with Spurs over their vacant managerial job…

What’s the word?

That’s according to Italian transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who delivered a fresh update on Twitter.

He wrote:

“Tottenham have contacted Antonio Conte as candidate for Spurs job – not done but talks ongoing about potential project, contract and salary. Conte is one of the options in #THFC list.”

It comes just a day after the Guardian and Sky Sports journalist appeared on Chris Cowlin’s YouTube channel, where he discussed the prospects of the former Chelsea boss being appointed in North London.

“He could be an opportunity for Tottenham if something happens in the next few days. He’s available on the market. He’s ready to train immediately after his separation from Inter [Milan],” said Romano.

“In my personal opinion, he would be perfect for what Spurs want. He has a habit of winning, he’s a serial winner. He’s fantastic wherever he goes.

“But he always wants, what I would call, an important participation from the club. You need to invest, you need to sign players that he wants. You need to go 100% together with this.”

Statement of intent

This would certainly be a massive statement of intent from Spurs as Conte has a proven track record of success in England, so much so that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola claimed he was a “tactical master.”

Indeed, the 51-year-old Italian arrived at Chelsea with the club in a mess following their lowest finish since 1996 and in the very next season, he clinched the Premier League title before going onto win the FA Cup a year later.

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It’s quite remarkable that Conte has left Serie A champions Inter Milan just weeks after securing their first title in 11 years but one team’s loss is another’s gain, and Levy should be drooling over the prospect of adding a coach of his calibre to his club.

As Romano claims, if the Lilywhites chairman was to appoint the former Juventus boss, then it would surely suggest that he’s prepared to back him in the transfer market, only further suggesting that the North London strugglers mean business this year.

On the above evidence, Spurs and Conte will only come together if the 51-year-old can spend and boy will he need to invest wisely as this current squad is in dire need of an overhaul.

There is also the matter of Harry Kane’s future to work out after he expressed his desire to leave the club this summer, so perhaps the funds will be there after all.

It’s not every day that a nine-time major trophy winner is on the market. Levy must push ahead with plans to hire Conte, he seems perfect for the club.

AND in other news, How Levy can build Pochettino his dream Spurs squad with £170m spending spree…

With the Premier League season now winding down, Aston Villa boss Dean Smith may look to consider unleashing some of the club’s brightest young talents – starting with tonight’s game against Everton.

And, one player who’s been in the headlines more than most is Carney Chukwuemeka.

Reports have suggested that Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are leading the queue to land the 17-year-old in the summer, and it was even claimed that his potential exit was a lot down to Villa themselves.

Football Insider have claimed that Chukwuemeka wants to quit Smith’s side because of “broken promises” from the club, and that “Villa chiefs are aware of the youngster’s stance and have reacted by promoting him to the first team match-day squad.”

The report adds however that “it remains to be seen whether the promotion, and even the possibility of a first top-flight appearance before the season end, is enough to keep the teenager.”

The only way to show Chukwuemeka that he has a future at the club, and that there is a genuine pathway into the first-team, is through action, and Smith has the perfect chance to do just that against Everton on Thursday night.

The teenager has earned rave reviews for his performances at youth team level with Villa, and was even dubbed as a “scary talent” by The Birmingham Mail’s Ashley Preece,

And, writing in his post-match player ratings after seeing him score a hat-trick against Newcastle in the FA Youth Cup, Preece showered him with more praise, saying: “This was a Carney Chukwuemeka masterclass. It was a clinic in how to play an advanced midfield role with the 17-year-old oozing confidence and swagger. The hype’s real surrounding this kid who, as supporters know, has been around Dean Smith’s first team for a long time now. Villa’s No.10 started almost every attack and looked to hurt Newcastle at every opportunity.

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The 5 foot 9 starlet could bring the kind of fresh injection of energy and dynamism that could really end Villa’s season on a high, and offer them a tantalising glimpse of the future.

After falling to a 3-1 defeat to Manchester United last time, Chukwuemeka’s introduction into the team against Everton could be a real game-changer.

Meanwhile, Villa must drop this shocking ace vs Everton; it’s not Barkley…

West Ham United have held talks with Czech Republic midfielder Alex Kral, according to emerging reports…

What’s the word?

That’s the latest claim from Sky Sports, who suggest that the 23-year-old’s representatives have spoken to as many as five Premier League teams over a potential move this summer, with the Irons believed to be one of them.

It comes just a few days after The Mirror on Sunday (23rd May, page 74) reported that the Hammers are attempting to bring the Spartak Moscow star to the London Stadium ahead of the upcoming window and that he is expected to cost in the region of £14m.

Kral is said to have been in touch with both of West Ham’s current Czech duo, Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal.

Another bargain

Could David Moyes be about to unearth another gem on the cheap? It certainly seems so.

Despite looking like the spitting image of Arsenal’s David Luiz, Kral is more a defensive midfielder with tendencies to drift further forward – very much similar to his international teammate and Irons bargain, Soucek.

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Speaking about his own role, the 23-year-old dynamo claimed his manager sees him “as a defensive player” but also suggested his best role may be as a no.8, he said:

“In general, my optimal role is number eight, just between [the] six and [the] ten. I can defend more than now, but it all depends on the opponent.”

The 6 foot 1 powerhouse ended the campaign in Russia on 1.5 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 2.1 long balls, and a squad-high 56 passes per game, via WhoScored, proving he’s very much an integral part of Spartak’s engine room.

Indeed, they know it too, as their official Twitter account claimed that “he can do it all.”

That shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise given he has drawn inspiration from Real Madrid and Germany legend Toni Kroos, who is arguably one of the best to ever do it, as well as Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.

Kral has also played in defence, earning him the tag of being “one of the most versatile youngsters in world football” from talent scout Jacek Kulig, who also suggested that he was “extremely solid,” had “so many qualities” and will one day be “one of the leaders of the Czech” national side.

If Moyes can win the race to sign him, then the Hammers could certainly have another Soucek-like bargain on their hands. £14m in a snip in this current day and age.

GSB must get this deal over the line.

AND in other news, David Moyes set to receive major West Ham transfer boost…

Tottenham Hotspur are expected to announce former Juventus chief Fabio Paratici as their new sporting director in the near future, and he will have one monumental job on his hands.

The North London outfit have appeared to be in freefall ever since losing the Champions League final to Liverpool.

Mauricio Pochettino was sacked, Jose Mourinho has come and gone, Harry Kane wants to leave, and there’s a new low of being in the Europa Conference League next season.

Having won 19 trophies in 11 years in Turin, the Italian talent-spotter is in for one hell of a task at Spurs, where a piece of silverware has escaped them for 13 years.

Paratici could bolster his impact immediately by making one major decision within the current squad, however.

Since the end of the 2020/21 season, a lot has been made on the future of right-back Serge Aurier.

Football Insider claimed last month that a return to former club Paris Saint-Germain was ‘95%’ done, with the Lilywhites set to clinch £20m-plus for his signature.

It has since gone quiet on the situation but comments from the player himself have emerged in the last week or so. During an interview with L’Equipe, the 28-year-old claimed:

“Everyone knows that if I wanted to extend my contract at Tottenham, I’d have already done so. I’m not going to do that in six months’ time. I’ve experienced the Premier League and a Champions League final. I’ve reached the end of a cycle and it’s time to look elsewhere.”

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That is him practically saying his time at Spurs has come to an end, so it’s now on Paratici to generate as many funds as possible from his exit.

This could be a blessing in disguise for whoever takes the helm next season, with Spurs still on the search for Jose Mourinho’s successor.

As perfectly put by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher earlier in the year, Aurier is “one of the biggest liabilities in Premier League football” and is “a player who would possibly put you off management with the amount of crazy decision he makes.”

It’s not the first time that the 66-cap Ivory Coast international has been described in this manner as he clearly makes these mistakes regularly. Two former Spurs players have previously echoed Carragher’s thoughts.

Jamie O’Hara tweeted that Aurier was an “absolute liability” during their defeat to Leeds earlier in the season, whilst over a year ago, Darren Bent lambasted him as a “liability” too.

Considering he is amongst the current high-earners at the club, earning a reported £120k-per-week, Paratici must absolutely look to move him on as one of his first pieces of business.

Valued at £18m, the incoming sporting director should be able to generate a decent amount from his departure this summer. If he does, then it’ll certainly be the perfect start to his reign in North London.

AND in other news, Journo reveals fresh twist in Spurs’ manager search that’ll surely leave fans thrilled…

Former Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie has told Football FanCast in an exclusive interview that the Villans have considered loaning out striker Keinan Davis on more than one occasion.

Davis helped Villa turn things around against Fulham earlier this month after he came off the bench to assist Trezeguet’s second goal of the game which made it 2-1, before Ollie Watkins finally put the nail in the coffin.

Undoubtedly, it was a match where Davis showed his quality and what he has to offer, perhaps giving manager Dean Smith something to think about going forward.

Things, however, could have ended so differently, with Hendrie revealing that the 23-year-old has had opportunities to go out on loan.

On Davis, the ex-Villa player told FFC:

“I know they like him. I know they like him, hence they’ve kept hold of him. He could have gone out on loan a few times and they’ve kept hold of him. I know the striker situation has been a bit of an issue there, but when he’s come on he hasn’t let the team down.”

There is probably a long way to go until Davis can start to really stake a claim for a starting spot in Villa’s XI, with top scorer Watkins currently standing in his way.

However, as he showed against Fulham, the Englishman can certainly have an impact off the bench.