Newcastle in advanced talks to sign a “top striker”, he’d be unplayable with Elanga
Newcastle United have officially bid farewell to Callum Wilson, closing a five-year chapter marked by moments of brilliance, setbacks, and memorable goals.
The striker, known for his instinctive finishing and tireless work rate, departs Tyneside after scoring 49 goals in 130 appearances—a commendable return given the injury challenges he consistently faced.
Despite those difficulties, Wilson leaves with silverware to his name and the respect of the supporters, having lifted the Carabao Cup and played a role in Newcastle’s resurgence as a competitive Premier League side.
His departure opens up a crucial spot in Eddie Howe’s forward line. With European football on the horizon and the added burden of Champions League fixtures, the need for attacking depth has never been more pressing.
The imminent arrivals of James Trafford and Anthony Elanga signal Newcastle’s intent to reinforce, but the question now is whether another attacking signing will follow.
Joao Pedro was high on Howe’s wishlist, admired for his versatility and creativity, but a £60 million move to Chelsea ended Newcastle’s pursuit.
Despite that setback, Howe has quickly shifted his focus and is now reportedly in advanced talks to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the former Everton striker who recently became a free agent.
Manchester United are also believed to be interested, but Newcastle’s project and the opportunity for regular first-team football may prove decisive in attracting the 28-year-old to St James’ Park.
While Calvert-Lewin has struggled with form and fitness over the past few seasons, there’s reason to believe he could rediscover his best at Newcastle. His physicality, aerial ability, and experience make him a natural fit in Howe’s setup, especially if paired with a supply line like Anthony Elanga.
The Swedish international, who is also close to completing a move to Newcastle, delivered 12 assists last season for Nottingham Forest. His creative output included nine big chances created and an average of 1.3 key passes per game—indicators of his growing influence in the final third.
Elanga’s effectiveness becomes even more significant when you consider the potential partnership with Calvert-Lewin. A player who thrives on service into the box, the former Everton striker would benefit enormously from Elanga’s direct play, precise crosses, and willingness to take on defenders. This could be the formula Newcastle need to add a new dimension to their attack.
A look at Calvert-Lewin’s numbers tells the story of a player whose peak came in the 2020/21 season. During that campaign, he notched 21 goals and added five assists, showcasing the kind of productivity that earned him international recognition.
Although injuries disrupted subsequent seasons, his raw attributes have never been in doubt.
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024/25 | 26 | 3 | 2 |
| 2023/24 | 38 | 8 | 3 |
| 2022/23 | 18 | 2 | 1 |
| 2021/22 | 18 | 5 | 2 |
| 2020/21 | 39 | 21 | 5 |
| 2019/20 | 41 | 15 | 1 |
| 2018/19 | 38 | 8 | 3 |
| 2017/18 | 44 | 8 | 5 |
| 2016/17 | 20 | 5 | 2 |
As these figures show, when fit and fully supported, Calvert-Lewin has delivered consistently. His game suits the Premier League’s pace and physicality, and under the guidance of a manager like Howe, who has built a reputation for player development, he could thrive once again.
Notably, even Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp once lauded Calvert-Lewin, saying, “He has everything you need in a top striker: size, mobility, speed, desire, technically really good, in the air, finishing with his head, both feet.”
With no transfer fee required, the move represents a low-risk, high-upside opportunity for Newcastle. Combined with the creative instincts of Elanga and the leadership of players like Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, this could be the blend of youth, experience, and versatility that gives Howe the firepower he needs.
The squad still requires more depth in attack, but Calvert-Lewin’s addition could be a pivotal piece of smart summer business.
If Newcastle can keep him fit and supply him with chances, there’s every chance the former Everton striker finds his form once more and helps power the club to greater heights in both domestic and European competitions.