Newcastle: Big-money Howe signing 'may not have big part to play going forward'

Chris Wood’s game-time could be limited at Newcastle next season, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

He joined for £25m from Burnley in January, although the Toon Army are hoping to add another striker to their squad this summer.

Since the experienced frontman made the switch to St James’ Park, their fortunes have improved quite dramatically.

In the seven games that Wood has started, Newcastle have collected 17 points from a possible 21 available, which has seen Eddie Howe’s side go from two points from safety to seven clear of the relegation-zone and in a great position to retain their Premier League status.

However, while Wood’s arrival has coincided in the Magpies’ impressive run of results, the New Zealand international is yet to get off the mark for the North East giants.

Wood is yet to assist for Newcastle either, although he has been their fourth-best player this term according to WhoScored, with only Dan Burn, Allan Saint-Maximin and Kieran Trippier outperforming him.

But Jones, who recently said that the 30-year-old still needs to prove himself, reckons that Newcastle will be looking to upgrade on the former Burnley striker ahead of the summer window.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “I’m not sure how much of a part Chris Wood is going to play going forward for Newcastle because they’re going to be back in that market again this summer.”

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Despite missing out on his signature in January, Howe remains interested in signing young Frenchman Hugo Ekitike, who’s scored an impressive nine goals in 21 Ligue 1 appearance this season.

However, they face competition from Arsenal, who are also in the market for a striker, with both Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie