If Leeds United are to be competitive in the Premier League next season, increasing their attacking firepower is an absolute must this summer.
It is essential a new number nine comes through the door to give them additional quality and tactical flexibility at the top end of the pitch. With big question marks over Joel Piroe's ability to handle the step up and Mateo Joseph and Patrick Bamford facing uncertain futures at Elland Road, some supporters would like to see two strikers check in to boost the club's chances of retaining their Premier League status.
Several centre-forwards have already been linked with a move to Elland Road, including Callum Wilson. The England international was a second-half substitute for Newcastle United yesterday as Eddie Howe's team booked their place in next season’s Champions League despite suffering 1-0 defeat at home to Everton.
While the rest of Newcastle’s players celebrated their side’s European success, the 33-year-old embarked on a solo tour of St James’ that saw him applaud all four sides of St James' Park. Emotions were running high and Wilson, who has 88 Premier League goals to his name, left the field in tears in what looked like his farewell appearance for the club. The former Bournemouth man is due to become a free agent next month when his contract ends on June 30.
Wilson has struggled with persistent injuries in recent years, hitting just one goal in 21 appearances during the 2024/25 campaign. When pressed on Wilson's future, Howe said: “Let’s wait and see. We’re going to sit down and talk with his representatives.
“What I can say is that Callum Wilson is, and has been, an incredible footballer for Newcastle. He’s someone who epitomises the spirit that has got us to where we are.
“He’s professional, brave – to come here and be the number nine in the manner and the moment he did, it was a difficult moment in the club’s history. The club needed hope – and Callum gave them hope. He dealt with the pressure and responsibility that role brings unbelievably well.
“He brings a positivity to the group, he’s a leader within the changing room, he’s just been incredible. Let’s wait and see what happens, but it was great to see him have that relationship with the supporters. There’s still so much respect there between the two.”
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