'Wait and see': Eddie Howe provides update on future of £20m Newcastle United star amid exit rumours

It is expected that Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson will leave the club at the end of the season when his contract expires.

The ex-Bournemouth striker has been a goal machine for Newcastle when he's been available, but that availability has been way below what's expected.

Wilson has suffered injury after injury which has seriously affected his output at the club, and with him now 33 years old, there's a strong feeling that his best days are well behind him.

However, we are aware of Eddie Howe's admiration for Wilson, and we've said that if Wilson can remain fit and get back amongst the goals at the end of this season, he could find himself with a new contract.

Eddie Howe dropped a big hint on Callum Wilson's future

So far, he's managed the former part of that arrangement, but he has struggled in front of goal, albeit he's not really been given much of a chance to shine as yet.

However, on Friday, Eddie Howe spoke to the media ahead of their crunch tie with Brighton on Sunday, and the gaffer hinted that he's pleased with Wilson's progress and no decision has been made on his long-term future as yet.

“He’s very much in my plans going forward. We have four games to go and he’s a huge part of that. I think he’s looked better & better in recent weeks.

“Physically, I see the Callum Wilson of old. He has stayed fit for a long period of time, which has been brilliant to see.

“I think on his long-term future, let’s wait and see how he performs and how he continues to look.”

Is there room for Callum Wilson at Newcastle United next season?

As we have said, if he stays fit, pops up with a couple of goals, then by all means, keep him around next season. We will need the squad depth to compete.

However, signing Wilson for another year should have absolutely zero effect on the club's pursuit of another striker. We need a reliable, fit, young centre forward who can compete with Alexander Isak for a starting spot while Will Osula continues to grow into the player the club believes he can be.

We can not rely on Callum Wilson to be that player who pushes Isak any more, he needs to be given a 'break glass in case of emergency' role when the options are very limited. It will help him stay fit, the less he actually plays, but of course, there's a match sharpness issue.

You know what. Just let him leave when his contract expires and bring somebody else in. I've convinced myself we don't need him now.