26-year-old now has perfect chance to prove he should replace Callum Wilson at Newcastle

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Newcastle United are taking on Bournemouth in the Premier League this weekend, and it is unclear who will lead the line for the Magpies.

It will not be Alexander Isak, as he is still out of action with a groin injury. And it might not be Callum Wilson either, after he picked up a problem during the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest.

The 31-year-old suffered a pectoral muscle injury on Saturday night, and it now means that he is a doubt for this weekend’s game against the Cherries – who are his former club.

If Wilson is out, Anthony Gordon will likely lead the line, which in turn could lead to Harvey Barnes coming into the side.

What it will also do is highlight the need for Newcastle to sign another striker, which brings us to someone else who will be at St James’ Park on Saturday.

Newcastle set to face January target Dominic Solanke on Saturday

Eddie Howe’s side are taking on Bournemouth, who will have Dominic Solanke leading the line. He is one of the Premier League’s top scorers this season, boasting 13 goals so far. Only Erling Haaland and Mo Salah have scored more.

Not only that, but Solanke is also a player who was linked with a move to Tyneside during the January transfer window.

Newcastle launched an enquiry for the striker, which was rebuffed by Bournemouth. They wanted to keep their number nine, and ended up doing just that.

But a move away from the Vitality Stadium feels likely, which could result in Newcastle reigniting their interest. After all, it has been claimed that the Magpies are going to look to sign a striker this summer.

Howe needs someone he can rely on more than Wilson. He needs someone who always stays fit and can regularly score goals.

Solanke might be the man for the job, and he will have the chance to prove it on Saturday. He has already excelled against Newcastle once this season, and a second stellar display could really encourage the Magpies to step up their interest.

If the 26-year-old shines at St James’ Park on Saturday, he could force Toon officials to decide that he is the man to replace Callum Wilson this summer.