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Newcastle United striker Chris Wood could leave the club and make a return to former side Leeds United, according to a fresh transfer rumour.
The Lowdown: Wood out of favour
The attacker has suffered a frustrating season to date, struggling to break into Eddie Howe’s regular plans in the Premier League and finding himself on the substitutes’ bench.
Wood has managed just two league starts overall, making 12 further appearances off the bench, and he only has a couple of goals to his name in all competitions.
It now looks as though the 30-year-old’s time as a Magpies could reach its conclusion during the January transfer window.
The Latest: Return to Leeds?
According to Football Insider, Leeds are eyeing up a return for Wood next month as Jesse Marsch looks to boost his attacking options at Elland Road.
The New Zealander’s current Newcastle deal expires at the end of next season, so time is slowly running out to receive a healthy fee for his services.
However, the Magpies are unlikely to sanction his exit unless they can sign a replacement in January, having turned down loan offers for the 30-year-old in the summer.
The Verdict: Makes sense for everyone
Wood returning to Leeds feels like an ideal scenario for all parties, with the striker clearly no longer being seen as a key player by Howe, even with Alexander Isak out injured.
You’d imagine that would surely jump at the opportunity to pick up more game-time away from St James’ Park, and his pre-existing relationship with the Whites means that he should feel comfortable moving back to Elland Road.
Keeping hold of Wood until the end of the season certainly wouldn’t be an issue for Newcastle, especially in terms of depth – he has been hailed as ‘tireless‘ by Howe – but if a January bid arrives, then it would make sense to let him go.
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