Leeds United continue to be linked with Newcastle United striker Chris Wood, despite Eddie Howe reportedly viewing him as an important member of his squad…

What’s the latest?

The Magpies manager dubbed the 31-year-old “hugely important” late last week, although the New Zealand marksman continues to be linked with a return to Elland Road.

Ben Jacobs has given his verdict on the transfer rumour, as he told GIVEMESPORT: “I wouldn’t rule out Chris Wood, former Leeds, of course. He’s not getting much game time at Newcastle United at the moment.

“Newcastle are still looking at goalscorers and creative-minded options. I don’t think Leeds would want to sign Wood on a permanent deal, but there might be a loan opportunity there, so that’s one to just keep an eye on.”

Given Leeds' failed attempts to sign Matheus Cunha, who has agreed to join Wolves, it could make this potential deal even more important for Jesse Marsch.

Better than Cunha

Although it may seem a ludicrous claim to make, signing Wood could actually be a far better deal for the Whites than the one that Wolves secured for Cunha.

Fabrizio Romano reported an obligatory €50m (£44m) fee for the 23-year-old, and with the New Zealand international having only been bought by the Magpies for £25m, the Whites would surely get him for a cut-price fee should they settle on a permanent deal with Newcastle.

Furthermore, Wood already boasts far more Premier League experience than the Brazilian, who has struggled this season for Atletico Madrid.

Having yet to score so far in 17 appearances in 2022/23, he has only managed two assistsIn fact, he is yet to hit double figures for goals in a single season whilst playing in one of the top five domestic leagues in Europe.

Meanwhile, Wood enjoyed four consecutive seasons with Burnley in which he scored ten or more goals, which is made even more impressive given that the Clarets were routinely near the relegation zone in the Premier League.

The 6 foot 4Kiwi brute”, as journalist Tom Barclay labelled the 31-year-old, also ranks in the top 1% for aerial duels won per 90 among strikers in Europe's top five leagues in 2022.

These attributes could culminate in a far more effective presence for English football, as opposed to the huge financial risk that Cunha would have posed.

With the squad that Jesse Marsch boasts at Leeds, with tricky wingers who can create for a proper number nine, perhaps it was a blessing in disguise to miss out on Cunha if it means that they will secure a deal with Newcastle for Wood.