Callum Wilson transfer to Chelsea or Man Utd hint as 'out of our control' admission made

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confronted transfer rumours linking striker Callum Wilson with a move to Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United this January.

The Magpies boss spoke to the media ahead of this weekend's FA Cup meeting with Fulham at Craven Cottage and outgoings from Tyneside was the centre of talk after a tumultuous week in the North East. Star man Kieran Trippier and winger Miguel Almiron have also been linked with January exits, alongside Wilson.

The Evening Standard yesterday reported that the Blues and Red Devils were on high 'alert' over Wilson's availability for an £18 million move this month at Newcastle United look to raise funds and abide by Premier League profit and sustainability rules having spent around £400m since the takeover by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund in 2021.

Both clubs are known to be in the market for a striker but could have to wait until January if keen to splash more than £100 million on a player such as Brentford's Ivan Toney or Napoli's Victor Osimhem. Wilson is 31 years old but a proven goalscorer, who could be a real deal if sold or under £20 million.

Confronting Wilson's future, Howe said: "He's 100 per cent committed. No part of him is looking elsewhere. He's got big ambitions and we want to keep him here. But some things are out of our control... Let's see what happens."

Wilson has seven Premier League goals so far this season but has struggled with injuries. The striker bagged 18 goals in the league last season but has often played second choice to Swedish forward Alexander Isak at St James' Park.

Wilson was asked about his future at St James' Park on the latest episode of the Footballer's Football Podcast on BBC Sounds but refused to tell host Rickie Haywood-Williams what was going on behind the scenes. Haywood-Williams asked: "Also speaking about transfer speculation, Cal, there are rumours around yourself. Can you shed any light around the rumours of AC Milan, Atletico Madrid and apparently there was a loan bid Newcastle rejected too?"

Wilson refused to outright rule out a move and commit to Newcastle United but refused to comment as he bluntly replied 'no'. He added: "There's always speculation around players, not just regarding myself, but everyone else in the squad I'm sure. I've not much more to say than that."