Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has seemingly hinted that Joe Willock could be on his way out of the club this month.
The 21-year-old was nowhere to be seen in Arsenal's final pre-season game against Tottenham Hotspur, during which a Son Heung-min strike in the second half condemned Arsenal to a 1-0 defeat.
Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has confirmed that the club are "in dialogue" with Arsenal over bringing Willock back to the North East, and Arteta has confirmed that the midfielder's absence on Sunday was not injury related as opposed to Rob Holding.
"Two different reasons. With Rob he wasn't fit enough to play and with Joe we will explain the reasons when we can," Arteta said at his post-match press conference. "When I can say more I will let you know."
Willock struck eight goals in 14 Premier League appearances for Newcastle during a six-month loan spell last term, and he is also thought to be on the radar of Ligue 1 gians Monaco.
The Englishman boasts 11 goals and four assists for the senior Gunners side, where his current deal is due to run until 2023.
Ben Knapton
