Manager shuts down prospect of United-linked frontman leaving in final week of January window

Eddie Howe was left bewildered by the reports linking Manchester United to frontman Callum Wilson – as were most supporters.

Last week, speculation emerged that the Red Devils were among three Premier League clubs – along with Chelsea and Arsenal – in hot pursuit of the Newcastle United striker ahead of the final week of the January window.

It came after United announced that Anthony Martial had undergone surgery on a groin complaint and would be spending around 10 weeks on the sidelines to complete his rehabilitation. In turn, this leaves Rasmus Hojlund as Erik ten Hag’s only recognised centre-forward in the first-team, although Marcus Rashford has been deployed in the position several times.

As was the case last season, the Reds are in pretty dire need of reinforcements in the forward department, but with little room for manoeuvre around Financial Fair Play restrictions, a permanent signing was ruled out before the window even opened. The situation money-wise is so tight that even loans aren’t an option this year.

Howe rules out Wilson departure

Alas, we won’t be seeing Wilson make the change from black and white to red and white anytime soon. Howe addressed the matter during his press conference on Monday, saying (via Manchester Evening News): “Callum is 100 per cent committed just like Kieran [Trippier]. That is why I was surprised by the noise about Callum. He is currently injured. From his perspective and our perspective, there is nothing in it.”