Could Joe Willock Leave Newcastle United in January?

Joe Willock's future at Newcastle United is becoming an increasingly interesting question ahead of the January 2027 transfer window, with Turkish club Beşiktaş continuing their pursuit of the midfielder.

Reports suggest Newcastle could face a difficult decision over whether to sell Willock in January, offer him a new contract or risk losing him without a transfer fee next summer.

But with Matthias Jaissle making it clear how highly he rates the 27-year-old, is a January departure really likely?

Have Beşiktaş Agreed Terms With Joe Willock?

According to reports emerging from Turkey and subsequently covered by NewcastleWorld on 2 November, Beşiktaş have reportedly reached an agreement over personal terms with Willock's representatives.

That does not mean a transfer has been agreed between the two clubs.

Beşiktaş pursued Willock during the summer transfer window, but Newcastle retained the midfielder following Jaissle's appointment.

The Turkish club's president, Serdal Adalı, has publicly confirmed his determination to sign Willock and indicated that he intends to return to Newcastle during the January window.

The interest is therefore considerably more substantial than an ordinary transfer rumour.

Why Could Newcastle Sell Willock in January?

The central issue is Willock's contract.

His current Newcastle United deal is reported to expire in June 2027, meaning January represents the final transfer window in which the club could potentially receive a fee before his contract ends.

From January, Willock could also become eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a club outside England for a summer move.

Football Insider reported on 21 October that Newcastle would consider January offers because of concerns about losing the midfielder for nothing.

However, there is an important difference between considering an offer and actively wanting to sell a player.

Does Matthias Jaissle Want Willock to Stay?

This is where the situation becomes particularly interesting.

Willock has enjoyed a revival under Jaissle, becoming an important member of Newcastle's midfield during the opening months of the season.

The Newcastle head coach has spoken positively about Willock's performances, his potential and his importance to the squad.

That suggests Newcastle face competing priorities.

From a financial perspective, selling a player approaching the end of his contract could make sense.

From a football perspective, losing a midfielder who has established himself under the manager could create another problem, particularly if Newcastle are already looking to strengthen other areas in January.

Will Joe Willock Actually Leave Newcastle in January?

At present, there is no confirmed agreement for Willock to leave Newcastle United.

Beşiktaş's interest is well established, and reports about personal terms suggest the Turkish club remain determined to complete a deal.

But Newcastle's position is less clear.

The club could negotiate a new contract, consider a suitable January offer or retain Willock for the remainder of the season.

Much may depend on whether the player wants to extend his stay, the fee Beşiktaş are prepared to offer and whether Newcastle believe they can afford to lose him midway through the campaign.

The biggest question is whether Newcastle should prioritise retaining an important first-team player or avoid the possibility of losing him for nothing in the summer.

With January approaching, Willock's contract situation is one Newcastle United will need to resolve sooner rather than later.

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