West Ham United ask Newcastle United for permission to speak to Callum Wilson in transfer development

West Ham have asked Newcastle for permission to speak with Callum Wilson about a transfer, according to Knees Up Mother Brown.

Writing on their website (2 July), the news outlet report that the former England international is expected to leave St James’ Park this summer for a cut-price fee as he enters the final 12 months of his contract.

West Ham have already held talks with the Magpies [Chronicle Live, 22 June] about a deal and have now asked them to hold talks with the player himself to see if a transfer is worth pursuing.

West Ham United to sign Callum Wilson from Newcastle?

A new striker is a necessity for the London Stadium this summer, because the current options simply can’t be carried through over the course of the season.

Divin Mubama has left the club after his contract expired while Michail Antonio is wanted by MLS and Saudi clubs [Athletic, 15 May] and Danny Ings is wanted back at Southampton [talkSPORT, 28 May].

Last season it was Jarrod Bowen who led the line for the majority of the campaign and he hit the 20-goal mark, but he prefers to play out on the right-wing and that would allow for Mohammed Kudus to move to his favoured left-sided role.

Callum Wilson
Callum Wilson struggled with injuries last season (Image: Imago)

Antonio is still good enough to do a job but considering his age, he’ll turn 35 during the season, they need someone more reliable and Wilson can offer that despite being 32.

Eddie Howe has described Wilson as “excellent” and while his injury problems make any deal a risk, if the asking price is fair he could be a shrewd signing for Lopetegui.

In other West Ham news, Jacob Steinberg has dropped an update on Max Kilman after a bid for Todibo was made.

For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.