Report: £25m player now ‘expected’ to leave Newcastle United
Newcastle United are fully aware that significant player sales will be required if they are to push forward with their ambitious summer transfer plans. While the Magpies may not currently be under strict pressure from the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), there is an internal recognition at St James’ Park that the club must generate funds through player trading to expand Eddie Howe’s transfer budget.
As a result, fans may witness some unexpected departures from Tyneside over the coming months. With the transfer window open and Newcastle keen to reshape their squad, a few familiar faces could soon be heading for the exit door.
Midfield Duo Could Be Sold to Fund Summer Reinforcements
Among those at risk of leaving are two long-serving midfielders—Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock—both of whom have played pivotal roles for the club in recent seasons. According to a report from the Daily Mail, Newcastle are open to parting ways with both players as part of a wider restructuring effort.
Joe Willock, in particular, is now being linked with a possible move away from the club. Crystal Palace have reportedly expressed interest in signing the 25-year-old, who joined Newcastle on a permanent basis from Arsenal in 2021 for £25 million. His arrival marked the final major acquisition under Mike Ashley’s ownership, just before the Saudi-backed Public Investment Fund (PIF) completed their takeover.
Four years on, Willock’s future on Tyneside appears uncertain.
Willock’s Influence Has Declined Amid Injuries and Increased Competition
Willock once looked like a transformative signing—an energetic, forward-driving midfielder capable of breaking the lines and scoring goals. However, his momentum has stalled over the last two seasons, largely due to a string of injury setbacks. As a result, his role in Eddie Howe’s side has gradually diminished.
In the 2024/25 campaign, Willock managed just 16 starts across all competitions, despite making 41 total appearances. He scored three goals and registered two assists, but failed to rediscover the dynamic form that made him a fan favourite during his initial loan spell from Arsenal.
Many supporters were left frustrated by his performances toward the latter stages of the season, especially when Joelinton was sidelined. That period offered Willock a golden opportunity to reassert his value in the team, but he struggled to leave a meaningful impact.
Newcastle’s midfield has evolved significantly, with Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton now forming an imposing and consistent trio. Despite his previous promise, Willock has not done enough to displace any of them in the pecking order, casting further doubt on his long-term future at the club.
Longstaff Once Sang Willock’s Praises
Interestingly, it wasn’t too long ago that Willock was spoken of as a key figure in the Newcastle engine room. In October 2023, ahead of Willock’s return from injury, teammate Sean Longstaff shared glowing praise for the midfielder’s qualities in training and the unique edge he brought to the side.
“I could sit here all day and tell you how good he is,” Longstaff said at the time. “Even watching him in training this week, he looks like he’s not missed a minute. I’m really excited to have Willy back. We know how important he is for us. The team plays its best when Willy plays and he’s able to drift. No one can do what he does in our team, in terms of the way he moves with the ball and how confident he is with it.”
However, less than two years later, Newcastle may be preparing for life without the player Longstaff once described as irreplaceable.
A Turning Point for Newcastle’s Midfield Identity
Should Willock and Longstaff both be sold this summer, it would mark the end of an era and underline Newcastle’s commitment to evolving under Eddie Howe. With European ambitions and financial prudence in mind, the club appears ready to make bold decisions to strengthen key areas while adhering to sustainable spending.
Selling academy product Longstaff and former marquee signing Willock could provide the funds necessary to bring in new midfielders better suited to Howe’s high-intensity, progressive style of play. At the same time, it sends a message that sentiment will not stand in the way of progress.
As the summer unfolds, Newcastle fans may need to brace themselves for difficult goodbyes—but potentially exciting new beginnings.