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Joe Willock has something Alexander Isak never got as January decision looms

The Newcastle United midfielder is still a wanted man despite breaking back into Matthias Jaissle's first team

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 5:00 PM
Joe Willock has something Alexander Isak never got as January decision looms
Key Things to Know
  • John Gibson highlights that Joe Willock controls his future with his Newcastle contract expiring at season's end.
  • Willock could sign a pre-contract agreement in January for a free transfer to Besiktas next summer.
  • Besiktas president Serdal Adali confirmed aggressive pursuit of Willock, including hosting the player's family in Istanbul.
The Story in 60 Seconds

John Gibson reports that Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock is in control of his future ahead of the January transfer window. Unlike previous stars, Willock's expiring contract allows him to negotiate a pre-contract agreement in January for a free transfer in the summer, wait for other offers, or sign a renewal with Newcastle.

Besiktas president Serdal Adali revealed extensive summer efforts by manager Vincenzo Italiano to recruit Willock. Gibson notes that Newcastle must now decide whether to offer Willock a new deal, sell him for a reduced fee in January, or risk losing him for nothing.

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