Callum Wilson has officially bid farewell to Newcastle United after five memorable years at St James' Park, confirming his departure following the expiry of his contract on July 1, 2025. The 33-year-old striker leaves the club as a free agent, having scored 49 goals in 130 appearances, a tally that places him just one goal shy of a half-century for the Magpies.
Wilson's journey with Newcastle began in 2020 when he joined from Bournemouth in a deal valued at approximately £20 million. From the outset, he made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut against West Ham and quickly establishing himself as a key figure in the squad. Wearing the iconic number 9 shirt, Wilson became synonymous with the club's resurgence, helping Newcastle reach new heights both domestically and in European competition.
His 18 Premier League goals during the 2022/23 season were particularly crucial, playing a significant role in securing Newcastle's first UEFA Champions League qualification in two decades. This achievement marked a milestone for the club and underscored Wilson's importance to the team's attacking prowess during his peak years.
However, the latter part of Wilson's tenure was marred by injuries, including persistent back and hamstring problems that limited his appearances last season to just 18 Premier League games. These setbacks, coupled with the emergence of Swedish striker Alexander Isak, saw Wilson struggle to maintain a regular starting position. Newcastle United reportedly offered him a pay-as-you-play deal, reflecting concerns about his fitness, but ultimately, an agreement could not be reached.
In a heartfelt statement posted on his social media accounts, Wilson expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters. "To all you Magpies, it's time to say goodbye after an unbelievable few years in the Toon," he wrote. "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 nine shirt and to have added a little more history to it. Scoring at the Gallowgate end really is as special as they say. 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. Thank you for the memories."
Newcastle United also released a statement acknowledging Wilson's contributions: "From scoring on his debut against West Ham in 2020 to wearing the iconic number 9 shirt, Callum has played a huge part in our success in recent years and we thank him for all his contributions. Good luck for the future, CW9." The club's appreciation was echoed by Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, who took to X to wish Wilson well, saying, "Well done Callum and good luck going forward."
Manager Eddie Howe, who had been keen for Wilson to remain at the club, praised the striker's professionalism and leadership. Speaking after Newcastle's final-day defeat to Everton, Howe said, "Callum Wilson is, and has been, an incredible footballer for Newcastle. He epitomises the spirit that has got us to where we are. He's professional, brave — to come here and be the number nine in the manner and the moment he did, it was a difficult moment in the club's history. The club needed hope — and Callum gave them hope. He dealt with the pressure and responsibility that role brings unbelievably well. He brings positivity to the group, he's a leader within the changing room, he's just been incredible. Let's wait and see what happens, but it was great to see him have that relationship with the supporters. There's still so much respect there between the two."
Looking ahead, Wilson's next destination remains a subject of speculation. A number of Premier League clubs have reportedly expressed interest, including newly promoted Leeds United, who are eager to bolster their attacking options. Additionally, Championship clubs have shown a keen eye on the striker, with Wrexham emerging as a notable suitor. The Welsh side, who have secured promotion to the Championship for the first time since 1982 after an historic third consecutive promotion, would benefit greatly from Wilson's experience and goal-scoring prowess.
Wilson's last experience in the Championship came during the 2014/15 season with Bournemouth, where he enjoyed a prolific campaign, scoring 20 goals and providing 13 assists as his side clinched the title. His potential move to Wrexham would be a significant coup for the club, aligning with their ambitious plans under current ownership.
Besides his playing career, Wilson has also been preparing for life after football, recently working as a pundit during the Club World Cup this summer. This indicates his awareness of the next steps beyond his playing days, even as he remains open to continuing his career at a competitive level.
Throughout his Newcastle career, Wilson accumulated 11 assists and received 15 yellow cards, but notably never a red card, highlighting his disciplined approach on the pitch. He was also part of the squad that ended Newcastle's 56-year wait for silverware by winning the 2024 Carabao Cup, coming on as a late substitute in the final.
As the summer transfer window unfolds, all eyes will be on Wilson's next move. Whether he remains in the Premier League, drops down to the Championship, or explores opportunities abroad, his departure marks the end of an era at St James' Park. For Newcastle fans, Wilson's contributions will be remembered fondly, not just for the goals but for the hope and resilience he brought during a transformative period for the club.
