Manchester United among three PL giants targeting 86-goal Newcastle attacker as stop-gap signing

Manchester United have emerged as unlikely candidates in the race for Newcastle United’s Callum Wilson, as per the Evening Standard.

The Red Devils join Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea in pursuit of the £18 million-rated frontman, with all clubs keen to bolster their frontlines after a string of lacklustre results across the board.

Wilson, 31, boasts a plethora of experience in the top flight from his time at St. James’ Park and, prior to that, Bournemouth, where he played under current coach Eddie Howe. He has netted 86 league goals in 215 appearances across nine years.

Newcastle are looking to create some breathing space around the profit and sustainability rules, having spent a whopping £400 million since being taken over by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund almost three years ago. Therefore, they have made a handful of players available whom they believe they can recoup suitable fees for.

Another stop-gap signing could be heading to Old Trafford

United announced yesterday that Anthony Martial would be overseeing an extended spell on the sidelines – around 10 weeks – after undergoing surgery for a groin complaint. This leaves 20-year-old Rasmus Hojlund as the only recognised out-and-out striker in Erik ten Hag’s squad.

Scoring goals has proven troublesome for the Reds this term; they have scored the lowest amount of any club in the top 14 of the table (24), and are the only side in the top 10 to have a negative goal difference (-5).

The window closes one week from today on February 1.