EDDIE HOWE TO SHIP OFF NEWCASTLE STAR TO FUND HUGE JANUARY DEAL, IT COULD BREAK THEIR SEASON
Newcastle United are already preparing for the January transfer window, and according to reports, they have their sights firmly set on a top defensive target. It has been claimed that the Magpies are eager to free up funds to strengthen their squad, with Crystal Palace’s star defender Marc Guehi emerging once again as the primary target. This isn’t the first time Newcastle has been linked with the England international, but after missing out on him in the summer, the club seems determined to reignite their pursuit when the window reopens.
Over the summer, Newcastle made an attempt to sign Guehi, but were unable to meet the hefty demands set by Crystal Palace. The Eagles had placed a significant £70 million price tag on Guehi, reflecting his value as one of the top emerging defenders in the Premier League. Steve Parish, the chairman of Crystal Palace, stood firm on the club’s valuation, making it clear that only “superstar money” would be enough to pry Guehi away from Selhurst Park. Newcastle, like many other clubs, were reluctant to pay that much for a defender and had to back out of the deal.
However, the situation could shift significantly as Guehi’s current contract with Crystal Palace has less than two years remaining. With his deal set to expire in the summer of 2025, Palace are aware that the clock is ticking. If the 23-year-old defender does not commit to a new contract soon, the South London club could be forced to cash in on him next summer to avoid losing him for free the following season. This scenario presents Newcastle with a potentially more favorable negotiating position come January, especially if Guehi’s contract situation remains unresolved.
For Newcastle, acquiring Guehi would be a major coup. The young defender, known for his composure, leadership, and ball-playing abilities, has established himself as one of the best young center-backs in the Premier League. His performances have attracted the attention of several top clubs, and his presence could provide the defensive solidity and depth that Newcastle are looking for as they continue to challenge at the top end of the league and in Europe.
In order to facilitate a deal for Guehi, Newcastle are likely to free up funds by offloading some players, and one name that has surfaced in this regard is Callum Wilson. The 32-year-old striker, who has been a key figure for the Magpies since joining the club, could be set for a departure as Newcastle look to balance their books. Wilson has yet to make an appearance for Eddie Howe’s side this season, having suffered a pre-season injury that has kept him sidelined for the start of the campaign.
Despite his injury, Wilson is reportedly attracting interest from two Premier League clubs ahead of the January window—Fulham and Brentford. Both clubs are thought to be keeping a close eye on Wilson’s recovery, and it is understood that they could make a move for him once he returns to full fitness.
Brentford, in particular, are said to view Wilson as the ideal replacement for their former talisman Ivan Toney, who made a high-profile move to the Saudi Pro League over the summer. Toney’s departure has left a significant void in Brentford’s attack, and Wilson, with his Premier League experience and goal-scoring pedigree, is seen as someone who could fill that gap.
On the other hand, Fulham are also looking to strengthen their striking options. The London club has struggled to find consistent firepower up front and believes Wilson could provide the depth and quality they need. Fulham have the financial resources to make a competitive offer and are thought to be keen on securing a deal for the forward as early as January.
For Wilson, a potential move away from Newcastle could be appealing. Although he has been a pivotal player for the Magpies, his recent injury troubles and the emergence of Alexander Isak as the club’s preferred striker have raised questions about his future at St. James’ Park. Isak’s impressive form has seen him cement his place as Newcastle’s first-choice forward, and Wilson, now 32, finds himself slipping down the pecking order.
Reports suggest that Wilson is open-minded about a move, as he is eager to secure more regular game time. In recent seasons, he has been plagued by injuries, including the back issue that has kept him out of action during pre-season and the early stages of the Premier League campaign. At this stage in his career, Wilson may see a transfer as an opportunity to regain his fitness, earn more playing time, and finish his career on a high note.
Wilson is reportedly on a £46,000-a-week contract at Newcastle, and while his wages might not be a stumbling block for potential suitors, his recent injury record could make clubs cautious. However, if he can prove his fitness in the coming months, both Brentford and Fulham could look to make a serious approach for him in January.
From Newcastle’s perspective, selling Wilson would not only clear up valuable space in the squad but would also help them raise the necessary funds to make a significant move for Guehi. Given the defender’s high price tag, Newcastle will likely need to part with some key assets to meet Crystal Palace’s demands. Wilson, being one of the more senior players on their roster, represents a logical candidate for sale, especially with his current standing within the squad.
Ultimately, the January transfer window could be a pivotal period for Newcastle as they look to fine-tune their squad and push for success in both domestic and European competitions. The pursuit of Marc Guehi signals the club’s ambitions to strengthen their defensive ranks with a top-quality addition, while the potential sale of Callum Wilson shows that they are willing to make tough decisions in order to achieve their goals.
As the window approaches, the fate of both Guehi and Wilson will be closely watched, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle can strike the right balance between their transfer ambitions and their squad dynamics. For now, though, it appears that the Magpies are gearing up for what could be an exciting and eventful January.