Arsenal starlet Joe Willock wanted by Monaco with French giants ready to rival Newcastle in transfer battle
MONACO are ready to rival Newcastle in the race to sign Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock, according to reports.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell at the Magpies last season, scoring eight goals in 14 Premier League appearances.
Willock also managed to pick up the final Player of the Month award of the league season.
According to RMC Sport, Monaco have joined Newcastle in the race to sign Willock.
Any battle for his signature could ramp up his price tag.
It is believed that the Ligue 1 club are looking to provide cover in midfield for star Aurelien Tchouameni and Youssouf Fofana.
A move to France could be more appealing for Willock with Monaco being able to offer Champions League football.
Monaco finished third last term, just five points off shock league winners Lille.
Whereas Newcastle, on the other hand, fought their way to a 12th place finish.
The Magpies are waiting on Arsenal's decision about the midfielder's future, according to boss Steve Bruce.
But they remain very keen as Willock offers them "another dimension in midfield" which they don't have in the current squad.
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Bruce told Sky Sports News: "You have to ask Arsenal, it's their decision and it's the player's decision.
"Of course we want him back, he did great with us and gives us another dimension in midfield that we haven't got.
"We'll keep bashing away at it."
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