Veteran striker Callum Wilson, who turns 34 later this year, is approaching the end of his current contract with Newcastle United, which expires on June 30. However, the Magpies still retain the option to extend his stay by triggering a one-year clause embedded in his deal — a decision that remains under consideration as the season draws to a close.
Wilson, who joined Newcastle from AFC Bournemouth in the summer of 2020, has been a reliable goalscorer when fit, netting 49 goals in 129 appearances across all competitions. His arrival brought much-needed experience and composure in front of goal, quickly establishing him as a fan favorite at St. James’ Park.
But this current campaign has been far from ideal for the forward. A significant injury sidelined him for a large chunk of the season, and the emergence of Swedish star Alexander Isak as the club’s leading marksman has limited Wilson’s opportunities. As a result, he has started only one Premier League match this season, and his lone goal came in Newcastle’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Birmingham City in the FA Cup back in February.
Wilson made his return to fitness that same month and has since been a regular feature in Eddie Howe’s matchday squads. He has appeared in the last 14 matches in all competitions, starting two of them and contributing as a substitute in the others. While his minutes have been managed carefully, his presence has been a valuable asset during the club’s end-of-season push.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe — who knows Wilson well from their shared time at Bournemouth — has publicly expressed his belief that the striker can still make a meaningful contribution during the run-in. With just four matches left to play, and Champions League qualification on the line, Howe remains optimistic about what Wilson can offer.
“He’s very much in my plans going forward,” Howe said. “We have four games to go and he’s a huge part of that. I think he’s looked better and better in recent weeks.”
Howe acknowledged that Wilson’s return from injury has been somewhat of a mini pre-season — an intense period of catching up on match fitness and rhythm in a condensed timeframe. “It’s never easy, but he needed the minutes and training sessions to rediscover his best form. I think he’s getting there now.”
Physically, Howe believes Wilson is looking sharp again. “I see the Callum Wilson of old,” he continued. “He’s been injury-free for a good stretch, which is fantastic. Long-term? We’ll just have to wait and see.”
While Howe carefully avoided giving a definitive answer on whether Wilson will remain at the club beyond this season, the striker’s contract situation remains a point of intrigue. Newcastle do have the option to extend his deal by a year, but reports suggest the club is leaning toward offering him a new short-term contract, potentially on reduced wages, rather than activating the existing clause.
Financial considerations may also play a role in the club’s decision-making. The June 30 contract deadline is particularly significant, as it coincides with the end of the financial year used for Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) calculations. Clubs must stay within certain spending limits to avoid penalties, including potential points deductions.
Additionally, Newcastle’s eventual placement in European competition — whether that be the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League — could influence their summer transfer activity and determine how they build the squad, including whether a veteran like Wilson fits into their plans.
For now, all focus remains on the critical final stretch of the season. Newcastle, currently sitting third in the Premier League table, are clinging to a narrow advantage in the Champions League qualification race. They face a tough trip to the Amex Stadium to take on Brighton & Hove Albion — a venue where they have never won a Premier League match — before a vital home clash against Chelsea. Their penultimate match sees them travel to Arsenal, a team they have already beaten three times this season, though they haven’t won a league game at the Emirates since 2010. The campaign concludes on May 25 at St. James’ Park against Everton.
Whether these are Wilson’s final appearances in a black-and-white shirt or just the start of another chapter remains to be seen. One thing is certain: his future at the club is hanging in the balance, with multiple factors influencing the outcome.
