Newcastle eager to sign Solanke ahead Saturday clash

Newcastle are desperately trying to sign a striker before Saturday’s match against relegation rivals Watford.

They are scrambling to replace top scorer Callum Wilson, who head coach Eddie Howe said would be out with a calf injury for two months after Saturday’s shock FA Cup third-round defeat to Cambridge United.

Dominic Solanke, Patrick Schick, Chris Wood, Divock Origi and Sardar Azmoun are of interest to the Magpies.

The Transfer Show’s Dharmesh Sheth reports that Divock Origi is wanted by three Italian clubs, but would prefer to stay in the Premier League

If they fail to sign anyone this week, second-bottom Newcastle could play Saturday’s match at home to Watford, who sit two points above them, without a recognised striker, having scored just 19 goals in 21 matches this season.

Newcastle have a lengthy list of possible targets as they work around the clock to try and make additions to a squad that has been affected by injury and Covid-19.

However, it is understood there has been no approach to Burnley for Wood, who has scored three goals this season.

Liverpool forward Origi has six months left on his deal and is generating a lot of interest in Italy, but prefers a move to the Premier League.

Bournemouth striker Solanke, who has 19 goals this season for the Championship club, was signed by Howe for the Cherries in 2019 so the Newcastle manager knows him well.

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Newcastle are also attempting to add in defence following the arrival of Kieran Trippier.

They lodged a second bid worth £29.3m for Lille’s Sven Botman on Friday, but the French club value at nearer to £35m.