Beşiktaş Maintain Pursuit of Newcastle Midfielder Joe Willock
Beşiktaş have yet to abandon their efforts to sign Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock. The Istanbul club are already preparing the ground for a renewed approach during the January transfer window, despite failing to complete a deal before the European transfer deadline.
The Turkish side strengthened its midfield during the summer by signing Salih Özcan and Fabio Miretti. However, manager Vincenzo Italiano continues to view Willock as an important target and reportedly believes the Englishman possesses the qualities needed to complete his midfield system. Beşiktaş president Serdal Adalı’s administration therefore remains committed to keeping the 27-year-old on its shortlist.
Why the summer negotiations failed
Beşiktaş made a serious attempt to take Willock to Tüpraş Stadyumu before the transfer window closed. The club submitted an official offer worth €20 million to Newcastle, but the proposal was rejected by Magpies head coach Eddie Howe.
Howe considers Willock a valuable part of his squad because of his ability to operate in several midfield roles. The former Arsenal player can contribute as a central midfielder, make late runs into the penalty area and provide energy during both domestic and European fixtures. His tactical flexibility is believed to have influenced Newcastle’s decision to resist the offer.
Willock was reportedly open to moving to Turkey and is said to have encouraged Newcastle to reconsider its financial demands. Nevertheless, the negotiations failed to progress. His impressive start to the season, including a goal against Liverpool, strengthened his position within the Newcastle squad and made the club less willing to approve an immediate sale.
Beşiktaş prepare for a new January approach
The approaching winter transfer window could provide Beşiktaş with another opportunity. Willock is entering the final 18 months of his contract at St James’ Park, a situation that may eventually force Newcastle to make a decision over his future.
The English club could choose to retain him until the end of the season, attempt to negotiate a contract extension or consider a January transfer if an acceptable offer arrives. Beşiktaş are expected to assess Newcastle’s stance before deciding whether to submit another formal proposal.
A winter move would depend on several factors, including Willock’s playing time, Newcastle’s injury situation and the midfielder’s own position. If he remains an important member of Howe’s rotation, the Premier League club may continue to demand a substantial fee. However, the closer his contract moves toward its expiry date, the greater the pressure on Newcastle to avoid losing control of the situation.
Italiano’s midfield plans
Italiano reportedly sees Willock’s athleticism as a major asset for Beşiktaş. The manager is looking for a midfielder capable of covering ground, supporting defensive transitions and arriving in attacking areas without leaving the team unbalanced.
Willock’s profile would give the Black Eagles greater variety in central midfield. He could provide the physical presence required in difficult away matches while also offering an additional goal threat from deeper positions. His experience in the Premier League and his familiarity with high-intensity football are also viewed as advantages.
The potential arrival of Willock would not necessarily mean that Özcan or Miretti lose their importance. Instead, Beşiktaş could use the trio in different combinations depending on the opponent, competition and match situation. Willock’s versatility would allow Italiano to adjust his formation without making major changes to the team’s overall structure.
A long-term transfer strategy
Beşiktaş are not limiting their plans to January. Should Newcastle remain unwilling to negotiate, the Turkish club are prepared to continue monitoring the player’s contract situation.
The possibility of a free transfer could become increasingly attractive if Willock does not sign a new deal. Although a move without a transfer fee would reduce the immediate cost, Beşiktaş would still need to consider salary demands, signing bonuses and competition from other clubs.
A free-transfer strategy could also require patience. Newcastle may attempt to renew the midfielder’s contract before he reaches the final stages of his current agreement, while Willock could wait for a wider range of offers before making a decision. Beşiktaş will therefore need to maintain contact and demonstrate that Istanbul offers him an important sporting role.
Competition for Willock
Beşiktaş may face competition if the midfielder becomes available. Players with Premier League experience and the ability to perform in multiple positions often attract attention from clubs across Europe. A strong season at Newcastle could further increase interest in his signature.
The Turkish club’s strongest argument is likely to be the role offered by Italiano. Rather than competing merely on financial terms, Beşiktaş can present Willock with the prospect of becoming a key figure in a team challenging for domestic honours and aiming to make an impact in European competition.
The player’s regular involvement will also be crucial. If Newcastle cannot guarantee consistent minutes, a transfer could become more appealing. Conversely, continued selection under Howe would make it harder for Beşiktaş to persuade the English club to part with him.
Financial considerations for Beşiktaş
The failed summer bid demonstrated that Beşiktaş are willing to make a significant investment in the midfielder. However, the club must also balance its ambition with financial responsibility.
A €20 million transfer fee would represent a major commitment, particularly after the arrivals of Özcan and Miretti. The Istanbul club may therefore prefer to negotiate a lower price in January or wait until Willock becomes closer to leaving on a free transfer.
Any agreement would also involve discussions over wages and the length of the contract. Beşiktaş could attempt to spread the cost through performance-related bonuses, appearance incentives and a structured payment schedule. Such arrangements might make a deal more manageable while still satisfying Newcastle’s valuation.
For now, Beşiktaş have no intention of removing Willock from their plans. The summer attempt may have ended without an agreement, but the club continues to regard him as a suitable addition to Italiano’s midfield. January could bring a fresh round of negotiations, while the possibility of a future free transfer gives the Turkish side an alternative route.
Newcastle’s position will ultimately determine how quickly the situation develops. If Howe continues to rely on Willock, the Magpies are likely to resist another approach. If his contract situation becomes more complicated, Beşiktaş could be ready to act. The club’s interest remains active, and its pursuit is expected to continue beyond the failed summer negotiations.