Leeds United ‘front-runners’ to sign 88-goal hitman with £12m double swoop now possible
Leeds United Eye Callum Wilson as Striker Target This Summer
Leeds United are reportedly emerging as front-runners to sign Callum Wilson this summer, with the Newcastle United striker potentially available on a free transfer.
The club’s recruitment team appears focused on bolstering Daniel Farke’s squad with Premier League experience, and adding a new No.9 is expected to be a priority.
Neither Championship Golden Boot winner Joel Piroe nor Mateo Joseph have played in the Premier League, while Patrick Bamford’s 2024/25 season has been marred by injury, limiting his contributions.
Leeds have been linked with various attacking options in recent weeks, including Everton’s Beto and Brighton’s Evan Ferguson.
However, according to talkSPORT, the newly-promoted Whites are also eyeing a more affordable option—Wilson, who may soon be leaving St James’ Park.
The 33-year-old has struggled with back and hamstring issues during the 2024/25 season, starting just two of his 20 appearances and scoring only one goal, which came in the FA Cup.
Despite labeling this season as “one of my worst,” Wilson still boasts an impressive Premier League record, having scored 88 goals over 10 top-flight campaigns.
Wilson’s current contract expires this summer, and while Newcastle has the option to extend it by one year, reports suggest they may allow him to leave on a free transfer if the opportunity for regular football arises elsewhere.
If Newcastle activates the extension, they could still secure a fee for the striker, but this could limit his potential suitors, as manager Eddie Howe recently discussed Wilson’s future.
Eddie Howe on Callum Wilson’s Future
“He’s very much in my plans going forward, with four games to go, and he is a huge part of that,” Howe said two weeks ago. “I think he has looked better and better in recent weeks.
You’ve got to understand that Callum has been going through a pre-season in the shop window, which is difficult to do, but he needs games to get back to his best form.”
“I think he is getting there now. Physically, I see the Callum Wilson of old.
He has stayed fit for a long period of time, which has been brilliant to see. As for his long-term future, let’s see how he performs and how he continues to look.”
Leeds Could Pursue Double Move for Newcastle Players
In addition to Wilson, Leeds may also pursue a move for Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff.
Like Wilson, Longstaff’s contract was initially set to expire this summer, but Newcastle triggered a one-year extension to protect his value.
Despite this, Longstaff’s contract running until 2026 still leaves room for negotiations, with reports suggesting he could be available for around £12 million.
Everton are among the clubs linked with Longstaff, so Leeds will face competition for his signature if they move forward with this interest.
