Newcastle United should not pay over the odds for Joe Willock despite an impressive end to the season, according to Steve Howey.

Willock made the loan switch from Arsenal in February and brought the curtain down on his temporary spell at St James' Park by scoring seven goals in his final seven appearances.

Magpies boss Steve Bruce has made no secret of the fact he would like to acquire the midfielder's services on a permanent basis before the transfer window slams shut at the end of August.

However, the 21-year-old's prolific form means Newcastle face competition for Willock's signature. Former Leeds United midfielder David Norris told Football FanCast he wants Marcelo Bielsa to hijack Bruce's move and tempt the ex-England Under-21 international to Elland Road instead.

While Howey believes Willock would be interested in returning to St James' Park, he has warned Newcastle should not be held to ransom by his current employers.

The former Newcastle defender exclusively told The Transfer Tavern: "It's a no-brainer for Newcastle to want to sign him but it depends on how much Arsenal want for him. I wouldn't pay any more than £25million. He was absolutely brilliant and got seven in seven.

"We'll have to wait and see whether Mikel Arteta thinks he can be in his plans. If not, let the lad go and play first-team football. Having said that, don't overprice him so he can't get that move."