‘Good signs’ – Newcastle United contract offer hint dropped after Eddie Howe quizzed on star

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has refused to rule out the possibility of extending Callum Wilson’s stay at St James’ Park, despite the striker’s contract inching closer to expiration.

The 32-year-old has battled through an injury-plagued season but has shown encouraging signs of recovery in recent weeks, leaving the door open for potential negotiations over a new deal.

Wilson’s resilience has impressed Howe, who highlighted the striker’s gradual return to full fitness after a string of setbacks earlier in the campaign.

Unlike previous seasons, where recurring injuries disrupted his rhythm, Wilson has remained available for selection in the latter stages of the season—a factor that could play a crucial role in Newcastle’s push for European qualification.

Howe emphasized Wilson’s importance to the squad, both on and off the pitch. “He is very much in my plans going forward,” the Newcastle boss told Chronicle Live. “There are four games to go, and he’s a huge part of that. He has looked better and better in recent weeks.”

The England international’s lack of Premier League goals this season—zero in 14 appearances—might raise eyebrows, but context is key. Only one of those outings was a start (against Liverpool at Anfield), with the rest coming as late cameos off the bench.

His sole start in the FA Cup against Birmingham City yielded a goal, proving he still has the predatory instincts that made him a consistent threat in previous campaigns.

Howe acknowledged the difficulty of regaining peak sharpness without regular minutes. “Callum has been going through a pre-season in the shop window, as in on the pitch, which is very difficult to do,” he explained.

“But he needs the training and the games to get back to his best form. I think he’s getting there now—we are seeing the Callum Wilson of old.”

The striker’s long-term future remains uncertain, with Newcastle likely to assess his performances in the final weeks before making a definitive decision.

At 32, Wilson is no longer the long-term solution up front, but his experience, leadership, and proven goal-scoring ability could still make him a valuable squad player—especially if the Magpies secure European football.

Wilson currently sits on 49 goals for Newcastle since his £20 million move from Bournemouth in 2020.

Reaching the half-century mark would be a fitting milestone, but whether he gets the chance to do so in black and white next season remains to be seen.

For now, Howe’s focus is on maximizing Wilson’s contributions in the run-in. “On his long-term future, let’s wait and see,” he said, keeping his cards close to his chest. “Wait and see how he performs and how he continues to look.”

With Alexander Isak firmly established as Newcastle’s first-choice striker, Wilson’s role may evolve into that of an impact substitute and mentor for younger forwards.

If he can stay fit and rediscover his scoring touch in the remaining fixtures, the club may yet offer him an extension—but the next few weeks could be decisive in shaping his future on Tyneside.