Newcastle United scouts told priority position; replacement for first-team star needed

Newcastle United have reportedly instructed their scouts to prioritise finding a suitable replacement for striker Callum Wilson.

Wilson, 32, will be out of contract in less than 18 months, and following an uncertain January window that saw him heavily linked with a late move to Atletico Madrid, the experienced forward, according to a recent report from the Daily Mail, is set to leave St. James’ Park before the start of next season.

Consequently, with Wilson’s future under Eddie Howe likely to be cut short in the summer, the Magpies are believed to have their sights set on bringing in a new hitman in time for the 2024-25 campaign.

One player the northeast giants are targeting is Spanish striker Rafa Mujica.

Despite coming through Barcelona and Leeds United’s youth ranks, it has been in Portugal’s top flight that Mujica, 25, has found the most success. Currently playing Arouca, the 25-year-old is the division’s top goalscorer with 16 goals (19 in all competitions).

His form has caught the attention of Newcastle United, who are thought to be ‘considering’ making a summer move — and he would, of course, be a cheaper option than some of Europe’s bigger names.

Mujica, according to Transfermarkt, is valued at €5 million and will be out of contract in 2025.