Newcastle have reportedly added Burnley striker Chris Wood to their shortlist, as they try to sign a forward before this weekend’s clash against Watford. Alan Shearer is clearly a fan, judging by praise earlier this year.
Wood, 30, has been crucial to Burnley’s survival in the Premier League over the last few seasons. Joining the club in the summer of 2017 from Leeds for a fee of £15million (BBC), he has scored 53 goals in 165 appearances.
The New Zealand ace has not hit the form expected of him this season, scoring just three goals in 21 games. He has entered the final 18 months of his contract, and Sky Sports say Newcastle are interested in his arrival.
Burnley are unlikely to want to sell to one of their rivals at the bottom of the Premier League table. But Wood could be tempted, and Shearer was full of praise after his hat-trick against Wolves back in April 2021.
“He scored a great hat-trick which showed off many of his qualities – his finishing ability, his knack for being in the most dangerous areas and his aerial prowess,” Shearer said, on the Premier League’s website.
Shearer on Wood: Ideal signing for Newcastle, if they can get it done
The issue Newcastle have, is that when Callum Wilson returns, the incoming striker could well be second choice. The England international is a proven Premier League goalscorer – and it will be difficult to improve.
But what Wood offers is options. Not only would he compete with Wilson, but he offers a plan-B type striker to Eddie Howe. Also, he has played in a two-man striker system at Burnley and would give Howe that option.
Burnley will want to keep him but given that his contract ends in 2023, the Clarets might have to cash in if they want to receive a fee – and Wood is unwilling to extend his contract.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
