According to Daily Mail, Newcastle United are closing in on the capture of Salomon Rondon. The West Bromwich Albion striker has been hugely linked with a move to Tyneside this summer and as it seems, the Premier League club is now set to finalise the deal.
It is believed that Rondon will arrive at the club on a season-long loan deal while Dwight Gayle is set to head in the opposite direction. However, both players want a purchase option added into their deals. But, either way, Rondon will definitely be a welcome addition to Newcastle.
The Magpies were actively in search of a quality striker throughout this summer, largely due to their series of problems in the attacking department. In fact, their lack of potency in the attack has been one of the key reasons behind their stuttering form in recent years.
Star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic won’t be returning to the club after spending last season on loan at Fulham. Both sides have reportedly agreed on a deal worth up to £20 million regarding the services of the Serbian marksman, who will be delighted to have finally left Tyneside on a permanent basis.
In addition, Dwight Gayle is expected to leave the club following a mixed season at St. James’ Park. As mentioned earlier, the English striker could move to Hawthorns on a season-long deal, thus further weakening Newcastle’s offensive line.
As a result, head coach Rafa Benitez is keen on bolstering his side’s attacking department this summer and many believe Rondon can be the perfect addition.
The Venezuelan international is a robust striker who has the ideal characteristics in order to thrive in the English top flight. Although he may not have a lethal goalscoring record, his presence in and around the penalty area always causes trouble for the opposition.
Since joining the Baggies back in 2015, the 28-year-old has notched up 28 goals in 120 matches in all competitions, which is not actually a bad record either. His sheer physical prowess coupled with his determination and commitment is tailor-made for a club like Newcastle. In addition, he is also known for his knack of scoring important goals, which could be a useful trait.
But what makes him an appealing target is the fact that Newcastle can easily sign him on a cut-price fee next summer, when his contract with West Bromwich Albion expires. Therefore, he will certainly be an exciting addition to the Magpies as they aim to make an impression in the forthcoming season.
Stat courtesy: Transfermarkt
