Chelsea star told to join Newcastle United by former Leeds United striker

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan believes Callum Hudson-Odoi could reignite his career by joining Newcastle United.

The Magpies have been linked with a possible move for the Chelsea winger with Raheem Sterling’s imminent £45million arrival set to push him down the pecking order.

It was only three years ago since the 21-year-old rejected a contract offer from Bayern Munich in favour of staying at Stamford Bridge.

But many people believe Hudson-Odoi hasn’t yet lived up to his potential. A move away from the Blues - either permanent or temporary - has been discussed as a suitable outcome.

Callum Hudson-Odoi backed to join Newcastle

And when asked if Hudson-Odoi could excel on Tyneside, Whelan told Football Insider: “Yeah, I think so.

“With Raheem Sterling coming in at Chelsea and the other wingers already ahead of him – it looks like he is well down the pecking order.

“It seems like he has possibly gotten a bit too relaxed after signing that new contract. He’s happy to be at a club like Chelsea, but is he really fighting for his place?

“To get into the England squad these days, you have to be playing week-in, week-out – and he’s not doing that.

“It’s really important that he gets out this summer. Whether it’s a season-long loan or a permanent deal, it would probably suit Newcastle.

“He can find that confidence, belief, and motivation again through more game time if he does make this move.”

Eddie Howe is in the market for a wide forward this summer with Bayer Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby a top target.

The Bundesliga club’s £50million+ price tag, however, makes a deal unlikely at this stage.