Newcastle United transfer talk grows as approaches made for striker - four Premier League clubs linked

Newcastle United target Jonathan David has reportedly been approached by four different Premier League outfits this January.

The player is free to talk to clubs outside of France as his deal at Lille enters its final few months.

NewcastleWorld understands the Canadian striker is admired greatly by the powers that be at St James’ Park, however, it is not yet known as to whether the Magpies are one of four clubs to have made an approach this month.

Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth this week claimed four top flight English clubs have made their interest known to representatives of the in-demand frontman, but he stopped short of naming them.

He said: “4 Premier League clubs have approached Jonathan David’s camp over pre-contract agreement. David out of contract in summer & can talk to clubs outside France. 2 Serie A clubs have made offers. David focussed on Lille and will assess all his options. #LOSC.”

Newcastle United striker ‘NEED’

The Magpies are in the market for a striker to ease the burden on Alexander Isak, but it’s not certain they’ll address that this January.

David is a player who the Magpies like and on a free in the summer could represent the kind of value Eddie Howe is looking for.

At present, Newcastle have Callum Wilson as primary back-up to top-scorer Isak, but he has made just four substitute appearances so far this season, and a hamstring injury suffered in early December, is likely to keep him out of action until February.

On Wilson’s injury, Howe said: "I really feel for Callum. We see the work, the dedication, the professionalism that he's shown, not just in the recovery from this injury, but throughout his career.

"To me he's an inspirational player and when you're in these moments, you have to understand how difficult this season has been for him.

"He's not cut corners - he's gone through a process to keep himself fit - taking himself away from family, seeking best opinions in the world. When you see him not get the results, I feel so sad for him.

"He's been outwardly emotional to me. I've seen the hurt. But it gives him extra motivation to come back and contribute."

Osula ‘trust’

Behind Wilson, the Magpies have summer signing Will Osula, but Howe has been reluctant to use the striker too often, given the Denmark youth international has looked very raw when thrown into the team in recent weeks.

He has started just one game, the match in the Carabao Cup third round against Wimbledon at St James’ Park.