Newcastle United star fuels exit talk after being spotted at Premier League club
Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock has sparked fresh speculation about his future after appearing at Crystal Palace’s academy over the weekend. The 25-year-old, who has seen his influence wane at St James’ Park in recent seasons, shared a video on Instagram from the Eagles’ training ground in Beckenham, fueling rumors of a potential summer move.
Willock was once a key figure in Eddie Howe’s side, playing a crucial role in Newcastle’s 2022-23 Champions League qualification campaign. However, injuries and increased competition for places have seen him slip down the pecking order.
An Achilles problem disrupted his 2023-24 season, and despite regaining fitness, he struggled to displace Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimarães, and Joelinton in midfield.
Last season, he made just 16 starts across all competitions, with his last Premier League goal coming in a 4-1 defeat to former club Arsenal in February 2024.
While his recent Instagram post showed him at Palace’s academy, the visit appears to be business-related rather than transfer-driven.
Willock co-founded W3 Sport, an app designed for young footballers, alongside his brothers Chris and Matty, and was promoting the platform with academy players.
Still, the timing of his presence at Palace’s training facility has inevitably raised eyebrows, particularly with reports suggesting the South London club are among those monitoring his situation.
Newcastle’s stance on Willock remains unclear, but with his contract running until 2027, the club are under no immediate pressure to sell.
However, if Howe views him as surplus to requirements, a departure could be on the cards—especially if Palace or another suitor presents a tempting offer.
Howe himself has previously expressed faith in Willock’s abilities, particularly highlighting his versatility when filling in for the injured Joelinton earlier this year.
“We still have a lot of faith in Joe,” the Newcastle boss said in May. “He is a like-for-like replacement in many ways, doing his best work on the left-hand side of the pitch, just as Joelinton does.”
Despite these assurances, Willock’s limited minutes suggest he may need a fresh start to reignite his career.
A move to Palace could offer him regular first-team football under Oliver Glasner, who has revitalized the club since his arrival.
The Eagles’ dynamic, attack-minded system might also suit Willock’s energetic playing style, making him an intriguing option as they look to build on last season’s strong finish.
For Newcastle, losing a homegrown talent would be a tough decision, but with Financial Fair Play considerations looming, player sales may be necessary to fund new signings.
If Willock does depart, it would mark the end of a mixed chapter for the former Arsenal academy product—one that promised much but ultimately fell short of consistent fulfillment.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Palace formalize their interest or if Willock remains at Newcastle, fighting for his place in Howe’s plans. Either way, his situation is one to watch closely in the coming weeks.