Newcastle United 'open talks with Arsenal over second Joe Willock loan deal'

Newcastle United have reportedly entered talks with Arsenal over the possibility of taking Joe Willock on loan for a second time.

The Englishman thrived under the tutelage of Steve Bruce during a six-month loan spell last term, scoring eight goals in 14 Premier League games for the Magpies, including one in each of his last seven matches for the club.

Newcastle have vowed to test the Gunners' resolve over Willock this summer, but Arsenal are thought to be reluctant to let the midfielder leave the club.

However, The Times reports that the two sides are now in discussions over a season-long loan deal for the 2021-22 campaign, but Newcastle do not have the financial muscle to sign him permanently.

The report adds that Mikel Arteta is still undecided on the 21-year-old's future, but Willock does want to make a name for himself at the Emirates Stadium.

The midfielder boasts 11 goals and four assists from 78 appearances in an Arsenal shirt, but he was not included in the matchday squad for Tuesday's friendly with Hibernian.