Newcastle must sign back-up for Callum Wilson

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Newcastle United simply must go out and land a striker before the end of the transfer window.

The Magpies picked up their first Premier League point of the season on Saturday.

It was very nearly three, but for some poor defending right at the death by Jamaal Lascelles resulting in a penalty for Southampton.

James Ward-Prowse scored for the visitors, who probably did deserve to take something from game.

Newcastle’s goalscorers were Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson.

The duo are the two biggest threats for the Magpies, and the two most likely players to score a goal.

It has often been said that Newcastle rely heavily on them, and the key is to keep them both fit.

Just three weeks into the new season, Wilson has already suffered a thigh injury.

After scoring his goal he was withdrawn without around 20 minutes to go, with Joelinton his replacement.

It remains to be seen how severe the injury is. There is obviously an international break now meaning he may not actually miss any games. But Wilson’s record is most definitely concerning.

Last season he was limited to just 28 appearances across all competitions, as he struggled hamstring issues.

He’s been a great signing and is obviously a quality player, but Newcastle knew what they were getting themselves into when doing the deal with Bournemouth.

Wilson – who is on at least £70,000-a-week (The Athletic) – had a string of injuries during his time with the Cherries.

The reality is that his record is not great, and so it is paramount that Newcastle have someone of decent quality who can come in when he’s not available.

Simply put, Joelinton and Dwight Gayle’s records in the Premier League are poor.

Newcastle must land a striker

There has been talk about bringing in a new central defender.

Without doubt, that is a position that also needs tending to.

But Newcastle need extra firepower.

Joelinton and Gayle cannot be relied upon and so, the recruitment staff need to be working overtime now amid the news about Wilson.

A possible starting point could be Salomon Rondon, who appears to be a target for Everton at the moment. Surely Newcastle should be looking at a possible hijack operation.