Chelsea player has now emerged as Joe Willock alternative for Newcastle, he’s available

Newcastle United have identified Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley as an alternative to Arsenal man Joe Willock, according to The Chronicle.

What’s the story?

The Chronicle are reporting that Newcastle are keen on bringing Willock back to the club.

The 21-year-old midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at the Magpies from Arsenal.

The Englishman did extremely well and played a key role in Newcastle staving off the dreaded drop to the Championship.

Willock scored eight goals in 11 Premier League starts for Steve Bruce’s side.

Despite Newcastle being keen on Willock, the Magpies have yet to receive a reply from Arsenal about a loan or a permanent deal.

Newcastle want to sign a new midfielder before the new Premier League season starts next week and have identified Barkley of Chelsea as a potential alternative to Willock.

The former Everton attacking midfielder is reportedly ‘available’.

The Athletic reported Newcastle’s interest in Barkley last month, but it was claimed at the time that the former Everton star was seen as a player who could play alongside Willock.

Now, Barkley is reportedly being perceived as an alternative to the Arsenal midfielder.

Ross Barkley to Newcastle?

Barkley spent last season on loan at Aston Villa from Chelsea and was not exactly great.

The 27-year-old scored three goals and gave one assist in 18 Premier League starts for the Villans.

Now, Barkley might not be the signing that most Newcastle fans would want if the club fail to land Willock, but he is a very good attacking midfielder.

Chelsea do not sign you if you are not good.

Yes, the England international has not been able to make a huge impact at Stamford Bridge, but under Bruce if played to his strengths, he could flourish.

Just like Willock did.

In other news, ‘Disrespectful’: £31m Leeds target has left his club furious, he’s reportedly Bielsa’s top target