Newcastle transfer news: Toon assess options before Chris Wood can leave

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In a shock turn of events, Chris Wood could leave Newcastle United this month and sign for Nottingham Forest on loan.

The news was broke by the Times on Wednesday, who stated that the 31-year-old was closing in on a temporary switch to the City Ground. That claim was then backed up by the Athletic, who reported that Newcastle and Forest were in talks regarding the striker.

Now the Daily Mail have weighed in on the situation, and provided some information on the Magpies’ stance.

They state that Toon officials held a recruitment meeting on Wednesday, where they discussed their options in terms of replacing Wood before they sanction his departure.

The report adds that the £25million man is open to the move, which would also include an option to buy.

Newcastle prepare themselves for Chris Wood’s departure

When news broke about Wood’s potential departure, the big worry among Toon fans was whether or not a replacement would arrive.

A move would represent a complete U-turn. It was reported in December that Newcastle wanted to keep Wood, and that he was happy on Tyneside.

While the New Zealander has not been a goal machine in black and white, he has played a crucial role over the past year. Even this season after Alexander Isak’s arrival, Eddie Howe has still had to rely on Wood, who has not featured in just two games this season.

Wood has been a regular for the Magpies, and him leaving would mean we are light in attack. We stated that it would be a huge risk if Dan Ashworth let him go without bringing in a replacement, and it looks like the club are taking steps towards that.

Whether it is an out-and-out striker or someone versatile who can play out wide too, Newcastle have to sign a new forward if Wood is on his way out of St James’ Park.

Now a meeting has took place to assess what options the Magpies have. It will be interesting to see whether or not Howe demands that a replacement is brought in first before Wood is allowed leave, or if the club let the striker depart first rather than rushing to get someone else in beforehand.