Callum Wilson, Newcastle United’s striker, was close to leaving St James’ Park in January, according to sources, but how near was he?
Last night, local journalist Joel Bland and The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards both took to X to disclose opposing reports on Callum Wilson’s future.
Edwards stated that Wilson informed the club that he did not want to leave in January and is motivated to return to fitness this season to help the team:
“Callum Wilson told #nufc in January that he didn’t want to go. He was evidently adamant. His partner has recently started a new business up here. He also aims to return before the conclusion of the season to test his fitness ahead of the Euros. Could he be sold this summer? Yes, he could, but he hasn’t given up and decided he no longer wants to play for Newcastle.”
Meanwhile, Joel Bland stated that Wilson was upset after his potential move to Atletico Madrid fell through during the winter transfer window.
Exclusive: Callum Wilson's future at #NUFC is in major doubt.
Tensions have risen since his move was blocked to Athletico in January, a transfer that the striker was keen on.
The forward's pectoral injury is understood to keep him out at least nine weeks, although it is…
— Joel Bland (@JoelBlandSport) February 29, 2024
“Tensions have escalated since his deal to Atletico Madrid was stalled in January, despite the striker’s desire to depart.
“The forward’s pectoral injury is expected to keep him out for at least nine weeks, but it is anticipated that the players will make little attempt to speed up the process.
According to a source close to his agent,’multiple’ clubs in Saudi Arabia are interested in making a summer transfer for him.
“The 31-year-old has also just retracted a bid for a house in Tyneside, adding to his hesitation about staying in the North East after the summer.
We think Callum Wilson’s time is coming to an end
Both reports are clearly contradictory, yet Luke Edwards admits Wilson might still be moved in the summer anyway.
We just added him to a list of six first-team players who should be moved on this summer due to his inconsistent fitness. We simply cannot rely on him and Alexander Isak for an entire season, as both are prone to being sidelined. We can handle one injury-prone striker, but two is simply too many.
Perhaps tellingly, when asked about his opinion, Luke Edwards stated that Joel Bland has a tendency to obtain solid information, so if we’re going one way, it’s towards what Joel said. He’s been quite accurate in the past.
