Newcastle United Take Crucial Decision In Their Pursuit Of Rondon: Brave Move By Benitez?

Newcastle United’s pursuit of West Bromwich Albion striker, Salomon Rondon, is set to rumble on. Reportedly, the Magpies were close to securing a deal to lure Rondon to St. James’ Park this summer but in the latest round of discussions between the two clubs, the Baggies have asked for Dwight Gayle to be sent on loan to the Hawthorns.

There is a dearth of notable strikers in the arsenal of the Toon. Last summer’s signing, Joselu, flattered to deceive and Aleksandar Mitrovic is likely to make his move to Fulham a permanent one. Although Albion have turned down Newcastle United’s advances for Rondon, Rafael Benitez is expected to return with funds from the sale of Mitrovic to the Cottagers.

From what has transpired so far, it has become clear that Benitez has rejected West Bromwich Albion’s demand for Gayle to be sent on loan as he is keen to hold on to the former Crystal Palace striker. The 27-year-old has been a useful asset for Newcastle United for quite some time now and he certainly adds depth to his side’s strike-force. He helped the Geordies in getting back to the Premier League with his goal scoring efficiency and last season, he scored 6 goals and registered 3 assists in 35 Premier League appearances.

Reportedly, Newcastle United had offered winger, Rolando Aarons, to the Midlands club, but the latter rejected the same. Rondon is heading into the final year of his contract at the Hawthorns and he has a release clause of £16.5million. The Throstles are unlikely to negotiate with the same and the latest twist means Rondon’s transfer could be delayed for another week.

The former Napoli boss will be hoping to speed up Mitrovic’s move to Fulham and get Rondon to replace him. The summer transfer window is due to shut down on 9th August and Benitez must be hoping to get Rondon as early as possible so that the 28-year-old hitman has the time to acclimatize himself with the tactical nous of Newcastle United before the first Premier League weekend.

Benitez, despite his desire to sign Rondon, has certainly taken a brave decision with respect to Gayle. The Englishman is a clinical forward and has a vast amount of experience under his belt. He holds the ball really well in the final third and this allows his teammates to gallop forward to threaten the opposition. Irrespective of whether Newcastle United sign Rondon or not, keeping Gayle in their ranks does hold a lot of importance.

Statistics Credits: WhoScored