Nick Woltemade can be Newcastle’s difference-maker – Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe is convinced club-record £65million signing Nick Woltemade is the answer to Newcastle’s problems in front of goal.

The 23-year-old Germany striker’s move from Stuttgart was completed on Saturday, but not in time for him to make his debut in Newcastle’s 0-0 Premier League stalemate at Leeds.

With Alexander Isak’s future still to be resolved, Howe said 6ft 6in Woltemade has all the attributes his side has lacked in the Swede’s absence so far this season.

Howe said: “Everything that we were probably lacking today, I think he can bring. There will be a period where he has to adapt. It’s always very difficult to come straight into the league.

“I’ve got really high hopes for him. I just don’t want to add to the pressure that he’s going to be under. But I think he can be a difference-maker.”

Newcastle were held 0-0 at Aston Villa on the opening day and after Monday night’s thrilling 3-2 home defeat to Liverpool, they drew another blank at Elland Road.

“It was absolutely massive for us to sign a striker,” Howe said. “I felt we had to. But I’m really pleased to get one with the quality that he possesses.

“He is not just a big presence – but he will be that in the box for us – but he’s got unbelievable technical ability, he’s got creativity as well.”

Howe has still not ruled out Isak being reintegrated into his squad.

“While he’s still contracted to us there has to be a way back,” he confirmed, while also revealing he hopes to make one more signing before the transfer window closes on Monday.

“I will be on my phone probably 24/7,” he added. “I’d love to do one more player, just to get the full strength I think we need.

“I don’t know what that player looks like. You’re not going to get a position out of me, but I’d love to have just one more.”

Leeds substitute Dominic Calvert-Lewin went close to snatching all three points for Daniel Farke’s side when a last-minute effort from inside the box, after he had escaped his marker, was saved by Nick Pope.

Calvert-Lewin’s team-mate Ilia Gruev has backed the former Everton striker to rediscover his scoring form at Elland Road.

Bulgaria midfielder Gruev said: “I think he came in really good, really strong. He kept the ball well a few times and was dangerous also with the header.

“I think the run from him was really good, how he created the space. It was also a good shot and a good save. I think we will see more of this. I think the stats speak for themselves.”