It would be a ‘big coup’ if Leeds United managed to sign Newcastle United forward Chris Wood this month, according to Football Insider pundit Paul Robinson.
The Lowdown: Wood rumours
Speculation emerged last month over a return to Elland Road for Wood, with the Whites thought to be plotting a reunion. Then, reports last week even suggested that Leeds have already made an enquiry to sign the New Zealand record goalscorer on loan this month.
The 31-year-old started for the Magpies against Leeds in Saturday’s 0-0 draw between the two clubs, and Robinson has had his say on the rumours.
The Latest: Robinson’s comments
Robinson, who now contributes to Sky Sports, said to FI that ‘it would be a big coup’ if Leeds managed to sign the forward and added that he’d be ‘surprised’ if an exit from St. James’ Park materialised.
“Wood has only been there for a short space of time.
“It would be a big coup if Leeds could prize him away but I would be surprised if Newcastle let him go. We all know Callum Wilson struggles with his fitness.
“Wood has shown in the past two games that he can more than compete at this level.
“January will be a difficult window for Newcastle. I think they will get priced out of the market for a lot of players. Given their league position, I think club’s will ask them to overpay for players.
“Wood still has a big part to play until now and the end of the season. There will be game time for him. He has a lifespan at Newcastle but I do not see him leaving this season.”
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The Verdict: One to watch?
Eddie Howe has three senior strikers on the books in Wood, Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak. Wilson and Isak have struggled to remain fit this season, with the pair both suffering hamstring injuries, leaving Wood to make 16 top-flight appearances.
Who knows, Newcastle could well end up signing a new forward of their own this month, which may open the door for Wood to return to Yorkshire, possibly towards the end of the window.
It could be one to watch, but you’d expect Victor Orta and co won’t want to leave it too late when it comes to bolstering Jesse Marsch’s attacking ranks.