Wilson’s future at St James’ Park has been the subject of intense speculation throughout the window. The striker is currently sidelined with a calf injury and has not featured for Newcastle since the Boxing Day loss to Nottingham Forest.
Howe spoke to reporters on Monday morning, where he was asked about Wilson’s future. Recent days have seen the Newcastle striker linked with a move away from Tyneside before Thursday’s deadline, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United all apparently interested in a potential deal.
However, Howe has insisted that Wilson remains a key part of his plans going forward. The Newcastle boss also reiterated Wilson’s commitment to the club and was “surprised” by the speculation around the striker’s future.
“Callum is 100 per cent committed just like Kieran [Trippier],” Howe told reporters, with Kieran Trippier also linked with a move away from St James’ Park.
“That is why I’m surprised by the noise about Callum. He is currently injured. From his perspective and our perspective, there is nothing in it.”
The January window has seen both Arsenal and Chelsea heavily linked with the possibility of signing a striker before the deadline. As well as Wilson, Brentford star Ivany Toney has also emerged as a potential target for both clubs according to some reports.
Neither Chelsea nor Arsenal have made any new signings so far during the transfer window. Both clubs are mindful of their spending in the market and ensure they each comply with the Financial Fair Play regulations.
