Callum Wilson appeared to bid farewell to Newcastle United supporters after the final game of the season against Everton.
Wilson’s contract is due to expire on June 30 after Newcastle opted against triggering a one-year extension. Instead, the club and player have entered talks over a more incentive-based deal.
The 33-year-old has scored 49 goals in 130 appearances since joining from AFC Bournemouth in 2020 for £20million but has endured a frustrating year with injuries.
Wilson was restricted to 22 appearances in 2024-25, only three of which were starts. His only goal came in the 3-2 FA Cup fourth round win away to Birmingham City, while his last Premier League goal was over a year ago in May 2024.
The nine-capped England international cut an emotional figure at full-time in the final match of the season against Everton, where he appeared to wave goodbye to supporters in the Gallowgate End before walking towards the dugout in tears.
Wilson was consoled by some of his teammates, including Dan Burn, before re-emerging on his own to applaud all four corners of St James’ Park.
Dan Burn on Callum Wilson’s ‘goodbye’
Asked about the prospect of players leaving this summer and Wilson’s ‘goodbye’, Burn told reporters: “I hate this time of the year because it's like no matter what happens next season, there's always changes, no matter if it's one player, two players, five, ten, whatever happens, it's never, ever the same.
“I feel like when you put that much into the season, there's always a bit of emotion at the end there. I'm not used to seeing Cal like that, so it was strange - he's not a very emotional person. He's always quite happy and lively so it was sad to see.
“I'm not 100% sure what's happening. I don't know if he does either, but I think it was a nice moment for him to get that appreciation. He's had a tough season injury-wise, but he's still a top, top player when he can stay fit.”
Eddie Howe on Callum Wilson’s future
Although it looked certain Wilson was bidding farewell, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe didn’t rule out him staying, though he did admit it would come down to finances.
Howe told NewcastleWorld: “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. Really professional, brave. I mean, to come here and be the number nine in the manner and the moment that he did in the club's history, it was a difficult moment.
“The club needed hope and Callum gave them hope. He led the line with that responsibility and the pressure that 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 and let's wait and see what happens.
Read More
“It was great to see him have that relationship with the supporters. There's still so much respect there between the two.
“He's someone I just respect immensely. I've seen the struggles that he's had in his career, and I've also seen the successes. I've seen the development.
“He's never someone you'd want to lose from the group but obviously, there's challenges that we face as a football club. Financial challenges with PSR, with a whole host of different decisions to make. And that's why I said, let's wait and see what happens.”
Continue Reading