Monaco are reportedly ready to do battle with Newcastle United for the signature of Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock.
The 21-year-old thrived at St James' Park during a six-month loan spell last season, registering eight goals in 14 Premier League matches under Steve Bruce.
The Magpies are understandably keen to welcome Willock back to the North East for the 2021-22 campaign, but his performances did not go unnoticed from clubs abroad.
According to RMC Sport, Monaco have entered the race for the midfielder's signature and have already made contact over a possible move.
The report adds that Les Monegasques view Willock as an ideal addition to the Youssouf Fofana and Aurelien Tchouameni midfield duo, with talks over a move for Lyon's Jean Lucas thought to have hit a brick wall.
Willock remains contracted to Arsenal until 2023, and he has made 78 appearances for the senior Gunners team since graduating from the club's academy.
Ben Knapton
