Newcastle have been hit with a major transfer blow with Arsenal reportedly set to keep hold of Joe Willock this season.
The England U21 midfielder had a hugely successful loan spell at St James' Park during the second half of the 2020-21 season, scoring in the final seven matches of the campaign.
Magpies boss Steve Bruce confirmed in May the club were interested in keeping the 21-year-old on a permanent basis, but The Northern Echo claim such a deal is looking increasingly unlikely.
Arsenal are reportedly set to keep Joe Willock in a major blow to Newcastle's hopes of signing him
Willock enjoyed a successful loan spell at Newcastle and Steve Bruce wants to keep him
The report adds Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has been impressed by Willock's application and attitude since returning for pre-season this week and is therefore willing to give the midfielder pre-season to prove his worth.