Newcastle Star Linked With Shock January Exit To Leeds United: Should Howe Cash In Now? | OneFootball

Leeds United have jumped into the mix to sign Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock. This interest comes during the current winter transfer window. Former Manchester United and Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown shares some fresh details with Football Insider.

He confirms that the West Yorkshire club thinks the 26-year-old is exactly what they need on the pitch. Brown notes that Leeds United are one of several Premier League sides keeping an eye on Willock’s situation. This interest exists largely because the midfielder is struggling to get regular game time at St. James’ Park.

Leeds United want Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock

The scout believes that Daniel Farke would love to have a player with Willock’s style of play. He specifically values Willock’s high energy and what he can do with the ball. The report highlights that Leeds United are looking for ways to improve the squad. They want to put some distance between themselves and the relegation zone.

Although the team recently turned their form around, they are still in a shaky spot near the bottom of the table. Brown notes that Farke wants players who can step in right away to help the fight for survival. So, Willock is a great shout.

The 26-year-old has plenty of Premier League experience and the engine to meet Farke’s demands. The former scout suggests that a transfer makes sense for everyone. It would let Newcastle move a fringe player on. At the same time, it would give Willock the weekly minutes he is looking for.

Brown said, “Joe Willock is a good player, but he’s not playing regularly at Newcastle. It makes sense for him to move on, and there is interest from a few clubs. I think Leeds would be a good fit for him and the type of player he is.

“He’s busy, a willing runner, good on the ball. Leeds could always do with a player like that. They’ve turned things around lately, but they’re still in a relegation battle, so if they can improve their squad in any way, it’s something they’ll be looking at. The manager wants reinforcements, and if Willock does become available, it’s something that might work for everybody involved.” 

Analysis: Does a Newcastle Exit Make Sense for Willock?

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Joe Willock (R) and Harvey Barnes (L) of Newcastle United appear dejected following defeat in the Premier League match between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Old Trafford on December 26, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Eddie Howe has to think about this potential move carefully. Losing a squad player in the middle of the season is always a bit of a gamble. However, Newcastle United could see this as a real chance to bring in some cash for their own targets. Willock offers plenty of hard running and can chip in with goals from midfield.

Even so, his struggles to stay fit have been a headache for both the coach and the fans. If the Magpies get a decent offer, they might decide it’s time to sell a player whose value might drop if he stays on the bench. Selling now would let the club spend that money on reliable starters who can help them push for Europe.

From Willock’s point of view, heading to Elland Road looks like the right move to get his career back on track. The Englishman is currently stuck behind a very talented group of midfielders at Newcastle. At his age, he needs to be playing every week to find his rhythm.

Leeds United give him a clear path to being a key man under a manager who loves high-intensity football. His ability to drive forward from deep would give the Leeds attack something different. It could be the spark they need to stay in the Premier League. For those reasons, Willock should push for the move. Staying on the fringes at Newcastle doesn’t do him any favours in the long run.