Newcastle prepared to sanction departure of striker

Newcastle United have told Chris Wood he can leave the club this month, 90min understands.

The 31-year-old is behind Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak in the striking pecking order at St James’ Park, though he has played a role for Eddie Howe this season.

But Newcastle are now prepared to listen to offers for New Zealand international Wood, who joined from Burnley for £25m last January.

Nottingham Forest have already made a move and are in talks to take Wood on loan with a view to a permanent deal, as they look to cover for the injured Taiwo Awoniyi.

90min understands that Wood’s former club Leeds United have also enquired, while Everton, Southampton and Bournemouth are also keep tabs on the situation.

Wood recently stated his intention to fight for his place at Newcastle, but it remains to be seen if he will still be look to stay after being told he can leave.

“I still believe I have a big part to play here,” he told The Chronicle in December during Newcastle’s training camp in Saudi Arabia. “I have not shown my best football here yet but hopefully I can do that given the chance. If not I am here to support the club and push them in the right direction. I am committed here and want to be here.”

Whilst Wood looks like he could be leaving, the same isn’t true of goalkeeper Loris Karius. The German goalkeeper has penned a new six-month contract to take him through until the end of the season.