Newcastle have £20m striker bid accepted after Villa drop interest
Newcastle have had a £20million bid for striker Callum Wilson accepted by Bournemouth after Aston Villa dropped out of the race.
The Magpies were in a battle with Villa for the services of the 28-year-old Wilson. Tottenham, meanwhile, were also rumoured to be interested.
However, it is understood that Dean Smith’s men have withdrawn their higher offer after it became apparent the player’s preference was a move to the north east.
That left the way clear for Newcastle to press home their interest and secure an agreement with the relegated Cherries.
Manager Steve Bruce is keen to improve his attacking options after it was confirmed Dwight Gayle will be out for up to four months after knee surgery.
Wilson was Bournemouth’s leading scorer last season with eight goals in 35 appearances but it was an overall lack of goals – just 40 in total – which contributed to the Cherries’ drop into the Sky Bet Championship.
Newcastle need more goals
Newcastle’s record was even worse, however, with just 38 goals scored in as many league matches with midfielder Jonjo Shelvey leading the way with six.
Forwards Gayle (four), Joelinton (two), Yoshinori Muto and Andy Carroll (both zero) managed just six Premier League goals between them.
Bruce also wants to reunite Wilson with his former Cherries team-mate Ryan Fraser. The Scotland winger is close to completing a free transfer switch to St James’ Park.
Wilson will become the latest high-profile departure from Bournemouth following their relegation.
Nathan Ake has moved to Manchester City in a £41m deal and Aaron Ramsdale was signed by Sheffield United for £18.5m.
