Callum Wilson leaves Newcastle United after five years at St. James’ Park | OneFootball

Newcastle United have confirmed that Callum Wilson will leave the club this summer, ending his memorable five-year spell at St. James’ Park.

The decision has been on the cards for some time, but it’s still an emotional end of an era for both the club and the English striker.

Wilson joined Newcastle from Bournemouth in the summer of 2020. He made 130 appearances for the Magpies and bagged 49 goals and 11 assists.

The 33-year-old striker was a fan favourite in Tyneside. He bagged a career high 18 Premier League goals in 2022/23, helping Newcastle qualify for the Champions League for the first time in two decades.

However, the England international has struggled with injuries over the past couple of years.

Last season, he featured 22 times across all competitions but only started two of his 18 Premier League appearances. His only goal came in the fourth round of the FA Cup against Birmingham City.

Wilson was a key part of Newcastle’s rise to the upper echelons of English football but has spent the past two years watching Alexander Isak spearhead the club’s lofty ambitions.

Despite struggling with injuries, Wilson was still a valuable member of Eddie Howe’s squad and a highly respected figure in the Magpies’ dressing room.

“It’s time to say goodbye after an unbelievable few years in the Toon,” Wilson wrote on social media.

“Thank you for everything. We stood strong together through the highs and some lows to help the club experience new heights. I am so proud to have worn the iconic number 9 shirt.

“All good things come to an end, but there’s no doubt Newcastle United will always have a place in mine and my family’s hearts.”

Newcastle had the option to extend his deal, but decided to open talks over a new contract based on incentives. That ultimately didn’t materialise.

The Magpies will now ramp up their efforts to sign a new striker to provide competition for Isak. They were keen on Joao Pedro but were beaten to the punch by Chelsea.