Newcastle United are actively pursuing a replacement for Callum Wilson, and internal discussions have identified Ollie Watkins and Yoane Wissa as potential targets. With Champions League football on the horizon, Eddie Howe is determined to strengthen his forward line.
With Callum Wilson departing, Newcastle United are assessing striker options including Ollie Watkins, Yoane Wissa, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin to support Alexander Isak in a crucial season ahead.
Newcastle United are stepping up their striker search following Callum Wilson’s confirmed exit, and two Premier League names have already entered internal discussions.
Wilson, who spent four years at St James’ Park, announced his departure with a heartfelt message to supporters, thanking them for their unwavering support during his time at the club. His exit leaves a significant gap behind Alexander Isak, who remains the Magpies’ undisputed leading forward after an exceptional 2024-25 campaign where he scored 23 goals in 34 appearances.
While William Osula is expected to stay and offer additional depth, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe wants a seasoned striker to ease the burden on Isak. The Magpies failed to win a single Premier League match last season in which the Swedish international was unavailable, underlining the urgent need for quality cover.
According to Newcastle transfer insider Craig Hope, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa have both been discussed as potential additions. Newcastle had previously attempted to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton, but their bid was rejected before the Brazilian completed a high-profile move to Chelsea for 55 million pounds. That setback has now shifted Newcastle’s focus.
Hope reports that discussions around Watkins and Wissa have taken place in the past two weeks. However, both players are considered expensive options, particularly as they offer limited resale value given Watkins is 29 and Wissa 28. Nonetheless, Wissa’s versatility is seen as a strong asset. Unlike Watkins, who plays solely as a striker, Wissa can operate across the forward line, including out wide. This flexibility was one of the main reasons Newcastle pursued Pedro, and it gives Wissa a slight edge in terms of tactical fit.
While no formal approach has been made, Wissa is viewed as a realistic candidate. His admirers within the Newcastle hierarchy appreciate his work rate, technical ability, and ability to contribute both as a creator and a scorer. If Brentford were open to negotiations, Newcastle might be tempted to test their resolve.
Another striker mentioned is Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The former Everton man is available on a free transfer this summer following the end of his contract. Though there has been no direct contact with the player or his representatives, Calvert-Lewin is viewed as a potential fallback option. Howe has long admired his physical presence and aerial ability, and although nothing is currently active, the possibility of interest being revived later in the window remains.
Newcastle are balancing their pursuit of reinforcements with the need to reduce their wage bill. Signing players with Premier League experience who do not command excessive wages would allow them to improve squad depth without breaching financial regulations.
At the same time, departures are expected, including Marcus Rashford, who has already expressed a desire to leave following a loan spell at Aston Villa. He has his sights set on Barcelona, particularly after the Catalan club missed out on Nico Williams. Rashford is one of several high-profile players eyeing the exit door, alongside Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia.
Newcastle’s recruitment strategy this summer will likely focus on experience and efficiency. They are returning to the Champions League and need a reliable backup for Isak who can also push him to maintain top form across a demanding season. Whether that striker ends up being Watkins, Wissa, or another target entirely will depend on availability, price, and how well the player fits within Howe’s system.
For now, Wissa appears to be the most attainable of the current candidates, while Calvert-Lewin remains a name to monitor. Newcastle’s interest is clearly in place, but any move will be calculated, not rushed.
