As the 2025 transfer window heats up, one of the most intriguing storylines revolves around Callum Wilson, the 33-year-old English striker who recently parted ways with Newcastle United following the expiration of his contract on July 7, 2025. After a five-year stint with the Magpies, where he netted an impressive 49 goals in all competitions, Wilson’s departure marks the end of an era for both the player and the club.
With his proven Premier League pedigree, experience, and goal-scoring prowess, the former England international is unlikely to be short of suitors. But where could Wilson end up for the 2025/26 season?
🚨 Callum Wilson is officially a FREE AGENT.
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) July 7, 2025
Which club should sign him? pic.twitter.com/RsYgo628aN
A Storied Career at Newcastle
Callum Wilson joined Newcastle United from AFC Bournemouth in September 2020 for £20 million, quickly establishing himself as a fan favorite at St James’ Park. Over his five seasons with the Magpies, Wilson scored 49 goals, including 47 in the Premier League, making him the club’s second-highest Premier League goalscorer behind Alan Shearer for a time. Known for his poacher’s instinct, clinical finishing, and leadership in the dressing room, Wilson was a pivotal figure during Newcastle’s resurgence under Eddie Howe.
However, injuries have plagued Wilson’s career, particularly in his final two seasons at Newcastle, where he struggled with hamstring, shoulder, and back issues. In the 2024/25 season, he made just 17 Premier League appearances, with only two starts, and failed to score a single goal—a stark contrast to his 18-goal haul in the 2022/23 campaign.
With Alexander Isak emerging as Newcastle’s undisputed first-choice striker, Wilson’s role diminished, and the club opted not to extend his contract on the same terms, offering instead a reduced deal with incentives that failed to materialize into an agreement. Now a free agent, Wilson is at a crossroads, seeking a club where he can secure regular playing time and continue his career before, as he put it, “football leaves me.”
Potential Destinations
Several clubs across the Premier League, Championship, and beyond have been linked with Wilson, each offering different opportunities and challenges. Below, we explore the most likely destinations based on recent reports and speculation.
1. Leeds United: Newly promoted to the Premier League for the 2025/26 season, have been consistently linked with Wilson. The Yorkshire club is keen to bolster its squad with Premier League experience, and Wilson’s proven track record makes him an attractive option. With 67 goals in 184 appearances for Bournemouth and 49 for Newcastle, Wilson could provide the clinical edge Leeds need to compete in the top flight.
Fit and Role: At Leeds, Wilson would likely serve as a starting striker or a key rotation option, depending on their other signings. His experience could guide younger players, and his aerial ability and finishing would complement Leeds’ high-pressing, attacking style under Daniel Farke. However, concerns about his injury history may prompt Leeds to offer a short-term deal with performance-based incentives.
Likelihood: High. Leeds’ ambition to establish themselves in the Premier League aligns with Wilson’s desire for regular starts, and a move to Elland Road would keep him in the top flight
2. Everton: Everton have emerged as strong contenders for Wilson’s signature, with reports indicating their interest in the free agent. The Toffees are in the market for a striker to bolster their attacking options, especially given their financial constraints, which make a free transfer like Wilson highly appealing. Wilson’s impressive scoring record against Everton—coupled with his Premier League experience—makes him a natural fit.
Fit and Role: At Everton, Wilson could compete for a starting spot alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin or serve as a reliable backup. David Moyes' pragmatic style would suit Wilson’s direct, no-nonsense approach, and his leadership could stabilize a squad often battling relegation concerns. A one- or two-year deal would be ideal for both parties, allowing Wilson to stay in the Premier League while Everton address their striker needs.
Likelihood: Moderate to High. Everton’s need for cost-effective signings and Wilson’s familiarity with the league make this a realistic option, though competition from other clubs could complicate negotiations.
Leeds are the front-runners to sign Callum Wilson for FREE! 😳
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) May 16, 2025
His contract at St James' Park expires this summer, and newly-promoted Leeds are looking to make an ambitious move to bolster their attack. 💥
Where do you think Leeds would finish if they signed Wilson? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/c2mVY10WcZ
3. West Ham United: - Also been credited with interest in Wilson, particularly as they look to add depth to their forward line. With Michail Antonio aging and injuries taking a toll, Wilson could provide a proven goal-scoring option for the Hammers, who are aiming to push for European qualification under Julen Lopetegui.
Fit and Role: Wilson would likely be a rotational striker at West Ham, competing with the likes of Danny Ings and any new signings. His experience in high-stakes matches and ability to score crucial goals could be valuable in both the Premier League and European competitions. However, West Ham’s preference for younger, long-term investments might limit Wilson to a short-term contract.
Likelihood: Moderate. West Ham’s interest is genuine, but their transfer strategy may prioritize younger players, making this a less likely destination unless Wilson accepts a backup role.
4. Wrexham: One of the more intriguing possibilities is a move to Wrexham, the ambitious League One club backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Former Newcastle midfielder Didi Hamann has endorsed the idea, suggesting that Wilson could be a “match made in heaven” for Wrexham as they aim for promotion to the Championship. With Wrexham’s rapid rise through the English football pyramid, Wilson’s experience and goal-scoring ability could be a game-changer.
Fit and Role: At Wrexham, Wilson would likely be the focal point of the attack, starting regularly and mentoring younger players. His Premier League pedigree would elevate the squad’s quality and provide leadership as Wrexham target back-to-back promotions. The club’s financial backing could also allow for a competitive salary, despite the drop to League One.
Likelihood: Low to Moderate. While the move would guarantee regular playing time, it represents a significant step down from the Premier League, which may not align with Wilson’s ambition to continue at the highest level. However, the allure of a high-profile project and a starring role could tempt him.
5. Saudi Pro League
Earlier reports have suggested a potential move to the Saudi Pro League, particularly following tensions with Newcastle after a blocked transfer to Atletico Madrid in January 2024. The financial incentives in Saudi Arabia are significant, and Wilson himself has acknowledged being “financially stable,” which could make a lucrative move appealing. Clubs like Al-Nassr or Al-Hilal, known for attracting high-profile players, could be potential destinations.
Fit and Role: In Saudi Arabia, Wilson would likely be a marquee signing, starting regularly and contributing goals in a less physically demanding league. The move would offer a fresh challenge and a chance to extend his career while earning a substantial salary.
Likelihood: Moderate. A move to Saudi Arabia would provide financial security and regular minutes, but Wilson’s comments about wanting to “leave football before football leaves me” suggest he’s not ready to step away from competitive top-tier football just yet.
Factors Influencing Wilson’s Decision
- Financial Considerations: As a free agent, Wilson can command a competitive salary, but his financial stability means he may prioritize playing time and legacy over a lucrative payday in Saudi Arabia.
- Ambition: At 33, Wilson wants to maximize his remaining years in football. His comments on the High Performance Podcast indicate a hunger to compete at a high level, which could favor Premier League clubs over lower-tier or overseas moves.
- Injury History: Wilson’s recurring injuries—hamstring, shoulder, and back—may deter some clubs or lead to short-term, incentive-based contracts.
- Playing Time: Wilson has expressed frustration at being a backup to Isak, making regular starts a priority. Clubs like Leeds, Everton, or Wrexham could offer this, while West Ham or a Saudi club might involve rotation.
Callum Wilson’s departure from Newcastle United closes a significant chapter in his career, but his journey is far from over. With his proven goal-scoring ability, leadership, and Premier League experience, he remains a valuable asset for clubs in England and beyond. Leeds United and Everton appear the most likely destinations, offering the chance to stay in the Premier League and secure regular minutes.
Wrexham presents an intriguing wildcard, while a move to Saudi Arabia could provide financial rewards but less competitive intensity. Wherever he lands, Wilson’s determination to “leave football before football leaves me” suggests he’ll approach his next challenge with the same hunger and professionalism that defined his time at Newcastle
