---
title: "Jetro Willems snubs PAOK; wants Newcastle move"
canonical: "https://readnewcastle.com/2021/01/28/jetro-willems-snubs-paok-wants-newcastle-move/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Alex Jones"
section: "Feature Writers"
published: "2021-01-28T19:00:00Z"
modified: "2021-01-28T19:00:00Z"
---

# Jetro Willems snubs PAOK; wants Newcastle move

Newcastle could be set to strengthen at left-back with a familiar face as [Jetro Willems](https://readnewcastle.com/2021/01/27/newcastle-could-revisit-potential-move-to-sign-jetro-willems/) has reportedly snubbed interest from elsewhere in the hope of a return to Tyneside.

As reported by [Chronicle Live](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-ready-transfer-deals-19714652), Greek side PAOK are reportedly interested in taking the Dutch defender on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt, but Willems would prefer a return to Newcastle.

However, that could be a more complicated task than first thought. According to [Chronicle Live](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-ready-transfer-deals-19714652), bringing Willems back after a [successful loan spell last season](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jetro-willems-says-newcastle-hold-18517917) depends on the future of Matt Richie. Despite signing fresh terms less than a year ago, the Scottish winger is attracting serious interest from his former club Bournemouth.

The report added that Newcastle are closing in on a loan deal for a new player as Mike Ashley’s board seek to offer Steve Bruce a transfer lifeline. It is understood that contact has been made with Willems’ entourage, and the left-back has turned down fresh terms in Frankfurt and interest from elsewhere in the hopes of a return to Tyneside.

[Chronicle Live](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-ready-transfer-deals-19714652) added that Willems is match-fit and ready to play, whilst he enjoys a close friendship with French winger Allan Saint-Maximin at the club.

### Read Newcastle Verdict

Given the strong interest from both the player and Newcastle, it is highly likely that discussions to take Willems on an initial loan basis could be at a promising stage.

There appears to be solid groundwork laid for a move to materialise, and Willems could add vital defensive dynamism to a team in need of reinforcement. Newcastle have only kept [three clean sheets](https://www.premierleague.com/clubs/23/Newcastle-United/stats?se=363) this season, conceding 34 goals in the process.

Aside from the obvious defensive reinforcement he could bring, his [existing cult hero status among many Geordies](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-jetro-willems-return-19718480) should make any potential St James’ Park return a very popular one.