Eddie Howe hints at second Newcastle United departure after Chris Wood blow

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Another Newcastle United player could follow Chris Wood out of the St James’ Park exit door this January.

Chris Wood is unlikely to be the only player to leave Newcastle United during the January transfer window.

The New Zealand international is closing in on a loan move to Nottingham Forest and will join permanently for £15million in the summer if certain conditions are met.

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Magpies head coach Eddie Howe was keen to retain Wood’s services as third-choice striker behind Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, however respected the 31-year-old’s wish to move to the City Ground.

Chris Wood of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Newcastle United at The King Power Stadium on December 26, 2022 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)Chris Wood of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Newcastle United at The King Power Stadium on December 26, 2022 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Chris Wood of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Newcastle United at The King Power Stadium on December 26, 2022 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

There are 11 days remaining before the winter market slams shut, and Howe has hinted at a late departure from the goalkeeping department.

With Nick Pope the undisputed No.1, Martin Dubravka back from his loan spell at Manchester United and Loris Karius extending his contract on Thursday, Howe has opened door for either Karl Darlow and Mark Gillespie to leave the club.

However, Howe has explained why United’s Carabao Cup involvement means an exit for either goalkeeper won’t be sanctioned until the latter stages of the window.

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The 45-year-old said: “Loris has been excellent since he’s been with us, he’s created a really good goalkeeping department.

“I think we have a slightly unique situation with the Carabao Cup because Martin’s cup tied so we want to make sure we have enough strength and competiton, while also giving players that we don’t feel may play an opportunity to go play maybe elsewhere.

Newcastle United goalkeepers Karl Darlow and Martin Dubravka. (Photo by STU FORSTER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)Newcastle United goalkeepers Karl Darlow and Martin Dubravka. (Photo by STU FORSTER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Newcastle United goalkeepers Karl Darlow and Martin Dubravka. (Photo by STU FORSTER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) | POOL/AFP via Getty Images

“There will probably be some late movement there, but we’ll wait and see.”

Howe is hoping no more outfield players depart after Wood’s exit, with the focus now on finding a replacement for the former Leeds United striker, although it won’t necessarily be like-for-like.

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“Chris was certainly that (a targetman) and he was excellent at it but Alex is a presence, he’s 6ft3, Callum is a presence, he’s 6f1,” Howe said.

“those two players can still be a physical presence and bring that physicality that Chris brought But the team has certainly evolved in that time.

“We have changed several of our patterns and our way of working, and that’s why we’re looking for a different type now.”

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