(Credit: Imago)

Newcastle contract twist emerges in Leeds United move for Callum Wilson

Alex is a lifelong Sunderland supporter who's been reporting on Mackem News since April 2025. Indeed, he started working for Breaking Media in April and has since graduated from St Mary's University as a NCTJ Gold Standard-accredited journalist, having completed his Master's degree in Sports Journalism. Alex previously worked for Football League World and has featured on the Roker Report, providing his opinion on all things Sunderland. While getting to the games is tricky, given his job, one of the highlights of his life was watching (and crying) as the Black Cats defeated Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium last season.

Published on:

17 May 2025, 4:10 am

Leeds United must add firepower up front if they are to have any chance of surviving in the Premier League next season.

Joel Piroe has done an admirable job of scoring goals in the Championship, but there are doubts whether he can replicate that form in the top flight.

The Yorkshire club have been linked with a move for Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson, and there have been significant developments on that front.

Joel Piroe won the Championship Golden Boot with 19 goals (Credit: Imago)

Wilson decision may lie with Newcastle

Alexander Isak's success at Newcastle has meant limited playing time for Wilson, and an exit from St James' looks on the cards.

Wilson has spent over four-and-a-half years with the Magpies since his move from AFC Bournemouth, notching over 100 appearances for the North East club.

However, the 33-year-old has had a long relationship with the treatment room, which has scuppered his playing time.

Premier League season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2020/21	26	12	5
2021/22	18	8	0
2022/23	31	18	5
2023/24	20	9	1
2024/25	16	0	0

Wilson's goal record in Newcastle by season

Given his age, Isak's success, and the rise of the Magpies, the striker does not look like he has a place in Eddie Howe's side.

Leeds need a striker and are are reported to be the frontrunners to sign Wilson to strengthen their forward line for the Premier League.

However, Newcastle have the option to trigger a one-year extension in his contract, according to talkSPORT (16 May).

Despite this revelation, the North East club would not stand in his way if Wilson- who has netted 88 Premier League goals in his career - wants to leave for first-team football.

Wilson is without a goal this Premier League season (Credit: Imago)

Wilson signing would be a risk for Leeds

There is no doubt about Wilson's quality, but signing him would be a gamble for Leeds.

His injury record is a concern, and Farke's side cannot afford to be without their main striker for large chunks of the season.

What the Elland Road club needs is a reliable goalscorer who can play week in, week out.

Wilson is without a goal this season, meaning confidence could be another factor that stands against him.

Of course, a move to Leeds could reignite his career, but the newly promoted side should err on the side of caution.

Callum Wilson