SHOCK TWIST AT ELLAND ROAD “WE WERE IN—UNTIL WE WEREN: Contract signed and statement released as Leeds United-linked confirm done deal

Leeds United had been linked with veteran striker Callum Wilson earlier this summer, but the 33-year-old has now officially signed with West Ham.

Although talkSPORT reported Leeds’ early interest in Wilson, the club ultimately went in a different direction. Instead of the former Newcastle forward, Leeds opted to bring in Lukas Nmecha from VfL Wolfsburg in June. The powerful striker has impressed so far during pre-season.

Wilson, meanwhile, remained without a club until recent talks with West Ham culminated in a confirmed move to the London Stadium on Saturday. He has signed a one-year deal with the Hammers after managing just one goal in 22 appearances for Newcastle last season.

“I’m excited to be joining a massive football club like West Ham,” Wilson said. “This is a club that reflects my own values—hard work, dedication, and a hunger for success. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

He becomes West Ham’s second free-agent signing this summer, following right-back Kyle Walker-Peters after his Southampton contract ended. The club has also spent around £54 million on defenders El Hadji Malick Diouf and Jean-Clair Todibo—the latter joining via a £36 million obligation to buy.

Manager Graham Potter welcomed the addition: “Callum brings proven Premier League experience, leadership, and a tireless work ethic. He will be an asset to our attacking unit and a great influence on our younger players.”

Leeds’ striker search continues

While Nmecha filled one attacking need, Leeds are expected to make a fee-based signing for another No.9 before the window closes. The club has maintained interest in Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, though their £32 million bid earlier this summer was rejected.

Leeds remain hopeful Fulham’s stance could shift if the Cottagers secure a replacement. However, Newcastle—Wilson’s former club—are also reportedly monitoring Muniz amid concerns they could lose Alexander Isak and Wilson in the same window. The Daily Mail reported an ‘informal enquiry’ was made by the Magpies, although RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa are also among their top targets.

Leeds now have until the transfer deadline on September 1 to land a first-choice striker. With the 2025/26 season kicking off in just two weeks, there’s clear urgency to wrap up a deal sooner rather than later.