Sources: Eddie Howe sets sights on signing rising star to replace Nick Woltemade at Newcastle

Eddie Howe has set his sights on landing a young striker who can be the long-term replacement for Nick Woltemade at Newcastle, sources have told Football Insider.

The boss is keen to land a striker who can develop his game at St James' Park before establishing himself in the starting XI with long-term plans being put in place.

This comes amid speculation over the futures of both of Newcastle's big-money striker signings from last summer with new plans to strengthen up front.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Howe could replace both Woltemade and Yoane Wissa with a new, younger striker.

After spending big in a last-ditch attempt to replace Alexander Isak last year, Newcastle are planning to take a new approach with their recruitment in the coming months.

The addition of a new striker has emerged among the Magpies' priorities, while Woltemade and Wissa could both be allowed to leave for the right price.

Football Insider revealed last month that Howe is planning to sign a new striker after holding crunch talks with PIF over his future and the club's direction in the summer.

The additions of a new right-back to replace Kieran Trippier, and a central midfielder are also high on the boss' list of transfer targets.

This comes amid links with a move for Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mattea, although it is now becoming clear the Magpies would prefer a younger option.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "I would be surprised if they made a move [for Mateta] this summer.

"Because he doesn't really fit the profile for the type of signing that Newcastle are looking to bring in due to his age. He turns 29 later this month.

"I fully expect Newcastle to try and bring in at least one new forward this summer, because there have been doubts about the current options available to Eddie Howe.

"Eddie Howe would like to bring in a younger forward who they can help to develop and somebody they could see coming in as their long-term striker at the club."

Amid doubts about the current options available to Howe, questions are being asked about their long-term futures at Newcastle and whether they could be moved on.

During what proved to be a frustrating season at St James' Park, both Woltemade and Wissa were cited as the sources of Newcastle's concerns.

Football Insider revealed last month that Woltemade could push to leave Newcastle, with a return to the Bundesliga on the cards just one year after his move to England.

The Germany international, who is set to feature at the World Cup, has fallen down the pecking order at St James' Park and could pursue a return to more familiar surroundings.

The 24-year-old has a number of clubs that would be willing to try to prise him away this summer, but there is an acceptance the finances involved could cause issues.