Newcastle United have a problem this summer, and it will not be easy to solve.
The Magpies might be in the market for a striker, and they definitely will be if Callum Wilson leaves the club.
The 32-year-old’s future is currently up in the air, with his Toon contract due to expire next summer. It has been reported that members of the Newcastle hierarchy would like to sell Wilson, while it has been suggested that the Newcastle number nine is up for a new challenge.
Alexander Isak needs support
If Wilson does leave St James’ Park, Newcastle absolutely must sign a striker. Eddie Howe will need someone to act as deputy to Alexander Isak, who will be looking to build on the best season of his career.
He netted 25 goals in all competitions during the 2023/24 season, and Newcastle considered Isak untouchable when they pondered how to solve their PSR problem.
The Magpies have a world class talent in Isak leading the line, but he needs support. Wilson currently fulfils that role, but for how much longer is unclear.
Newcastle United linked with Jonathan David
Newcastle have tried and failed to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin, while a new name was linked with the Magpies this week.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
Jonathan David emerged as a target, and the Lille striker is certainly available for a move this summer.
He would be an incredible addition to the Newcastle United squad, but it might be difficult to convince him to move to St James’ Park. That is because it is well-documented that whoever arrives will act as understudy to Isak, which probably makes a transfer less appealing.
That is the view of HITC Football insider Graeme Bailey, who has spoke to Geordie Boot Boys about reports that Jonathan David is on Newcastle’s radar.
“He’s available for a reasonable price, but would he be willing to play second fiddle to Alexander Isak?” he asked.
“Newcastle have now got the problem that Tottenham Hotspur had with Harry Kane. They always tried to sign a player to compete with Kane, but struggled. Whoever Newcastle target will know that they are not starting.
“I haven’t heard anything about Jonathan David and Newcastle, and I think it would be a tough sell to the player. He would be a good signing and fits in the price bracket, but some big clubs are looking at him.”
Wilson is perfect, if not for his fitness problems
As Bailey has stated, this is a problem that Tottenham had with Harry Kane. He was immense for Spurs, but never really had a proper understudy. Tottenham always struggled to find cover, and now it could be Newcastle’s issue.
But it is only an issue if Wilson leaves. In the England international, Newcastle have the ideal candidate. Wilson is a great goalscorer, and has dovetailed brilliantly with Isak when they both have been fit.
That is the main problem – fitness. Wilson scores consistently, but he also consistently has problems with injury. Howe cannot rely on him to always be available, which is why Newcastle are right to consider a replacement.
But will they get a replacement who is as good as Wilson and happy to play second fiddle? It is certainly a difficult sell, and it is a problem that sporting director Paul Mitchell must find a solution to before the transfer window closes on August 30th.