According to the "Telegraph" report, Newcastle midfielder Willock has dropped down the pecking order in the team, and Crystal Palace is considering bringing him in in January.
In the past year, Willock's status at Newcastle has declined, and it is difficult to reproduce his performance when the team first qualified for the Champions League two years ago. Willock, 26, struggled with injuries last season but failed to impress even when given the chance to play. With Aaron Ramsey joining from Aston Villa, Willock appears to have emerged as Newcastle's sixth-choice midfielder.
This has prompted Crystal Palace to believe they may have a chance to sign the former England international in January and bring him back to London. Newcastle paid around £21m for Willock, hoping to recoup the fee to help the club's profitability and sustainability (PSR) position.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is usually reluctant to lose players mid-season and unexpectedly started Willock in Tuesday night's Champions League tie against Marseille. Newcastle face tough decisions going forward. They are interested in AZ Alkmaar's young talent Keith Smit and believe the 19-year-old is willing to move. Smit is being watched by major clubs across Europe and will only consider a move if he can get regular first-team playing time and Newcastle have the funds to complete a deal in January.
This may persuade Howe to let go of Willock for the right offer in January, and Willock showed off his long-lost athleticism and dribbling skills against Marseille. He played a big role in Barnes' goal and nearly set up Gordon. Although Gordon missed the chance, it was a reminder of Willock's ability.
There is a temptation now to give Willock more playing time, especially with Ramsey still adapting to life at Newcastle. Newcastle are a better team when Willock is at his best. He brings a different element to the midfield, with an eye for goal and quickness on the ball.
However, Willock has been affected by injury or form over the past 18 months. Fortunately, he seems to be in better physical condition this season and his performance against Marseille was a reminder of what he is capable of. Willock is expected to start again against Everton at the weekend and Eddie Howe is keen not to lose him.
But if Newcastle wants to sign a midfield star like Smits in January, Willock may need to be sold to raise funds and free up space in the lineup. Newcastle already have six central midfielders competing for three spots, and despite inconsistent performances this season, Tonali, Guimarães and Joelinton remain first choice.
If Smit is to go to St James' Park, the transfer must be completed in January, otherwise there will be more competition in the summer transfer market. This is one of the reasons why Willock is considering a transfer at this stage.
Willock's contract with Newcastle expires in 2027, and it is unlikely that he will renew if he cannot play regularly. Newcastle are aware that if Willock is to be sold, now might be a good time to secure a decent transfer fee. Newcastle needs to update the lineup, and both the board of directors and the football level hope to reduce the average age of the team because some veterans are close to or over 30 years old.
Willock has been an important player for Newcastle and may still play a role in the coming months, but he is in the prime of his career and does not want to be a substitute player who comes off the bench occasionally.