The Magpies are eager to bring in another forward after Callum Wilson said goodbye after five years
Callum Wilson's Newcastle United No 9 shirt
Callum Wilson's Newcastle No 9 shirt
Newcastle United have confirmed that Callum Wilson has left the club after five years on Tyneside.
As reported by Chronicle Live this morning, Wilson rejected the offer of incentivised contract and now heads off for pastures new.
The striker looked emotional at the end of last term as he waved goodbye to the crowd after the 1-0 defeat to Everton.
A Newcastle statement read: "Callum Wilson has confirmed he will depart Newcastle United after five seasons at the club. From scoring on his debut against West Ham in 2020 to wearing the iconic number 9 shirt, Callum has played a huge part in our success in recent years and we thank him for all his contributions.
"Good luck for the future, CW9!"
It immediately frees up the No 9 shirt and heightens the need to sign a new centre-forward with Newcastle looking light in the forward area. Wilson had not commented publicly on his situation at Newcastle but broke his silence today.
Head coach Eddie Howe wanted to keep Wilson and said at the end of the season: "Well, let's wait and see. We're going to sit down and talk with his representatives.
"What I can say is Callum Wilson is and has been just an incredible footballer for Newcastle, someone who epitomises the spirit that's got us to where we are."
But Wilson said: "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 families hearts.
"Thank you for the memories."
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest NUFC news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.
You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.