Leeds United want 'unbelievable' 88-goal striker who rejected Newcastle United offer
Eddie Howe has paid tribute to Callum Wilson following his departure from Newcastle United.
Wilson is searching for a new club after his contract at Newcastle expired on June 30, ending a five-year stint at the club.
The striker joined Newcastle in 2020 from AFC Bournemouth for £20million, where he previously worked under Howe.
During his time at Newcastle, Wilson scored 49 goals in 130 games, which included a career high 18-goal Premier League season to help the club qualify for the Champions League in 2022/23.
The arrival of Alexander Isak and various injury troubles saw Wilson’s role diminish as his contract ran down. Last season, he started just twice in the Premier League and was reduced largely to substitute cameos.
But his impressive 88-goal record in the Premier League and availability on a free transfer is likely to appeal to some clubs looking to bolster their attacking line this summer.
Leeds United have been linked with a move for Wilson since the back end of last season while fellow newly-promoted side Burnley have also been credited with an interest while Everton, West Ham United and Manchester United have been named as potential suitors.
Ultimately, Wilson’s options are open this summer, but he will need to be offered a deal that suits him. Wilson turned down a pay-as-you-play proposal from Newcastle and would want to join a club where he would be likely to start regular matches when fit.
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Eddie Howe praises ‘unbelievable’ Callum Wilson
Howe signed Wilson for AFC Bournemouth 11 years ago and witnessed him score 67 goals in 187 games for the club.
The pair briefly went their separate ways with Howe leaving Bournemouth and Wilson joining Newcastle but their manager-striker partnership was rekindled 18 months later when Howe was appointed as Newcastle’s head coach.
Reflecting on Wilson’s departure, Howe told the club website: “Unbelievable player, person, character. Can't speak highly enough of him. And I've said it many times over the years, but we miss his laugh.
“He had an infectious personality. You always knew when Callum was around because he was bubbly, joking. But he obviously knew the right time to be focused on his work.
“He's very serious about his profession and scoring goals. We wish him well, all of us connected with Newcastle.
“Hope that he goes on and scores a lot more goals. And enjoys the next stage of his career.
“Unfortunately, that won't be with us anymore. But he will always be in our thoughts.”
Callum Wilson issues heartfelt farewell message to NUFC
Confirming his departure from Newcastle, Wilson said in a statement: “To all you Magpies...It's time to say goodbye after an unbelievable few years in the Toon.
“Thank you for everything. We stood strong together through the highs and some lows to help the club experience new heights.
“I am so proud to have worn the iconic number 9 shirt and to have added a little more history to it. Scoring at the Gallowgate End really is as special as they say.
“All good things come to an end but there's no doubt Newcastle United will always have a place in mine and my family's hearts. Thank you for the memories. CW9.”