Danny Mills believes Newcastle United could find a better alternative than West Brom striker Salomon Rondon this summer.
Rondon spent the season on loan at St James’ Park and was an instrumental figure as Rafa Benitez’s side secured a 13th place finish in the Premier League, with the Venezuelan scoring 11 goals and forming a productive partnership with Ayoze Perez in the second half of the year.
Newcastle are thought to be keen on securing a deal with West Brom to re-sign Rondon, who is thought to be available for £16.5million, on a permanent deal during the summer transfer window, according to the Chronicle.
However, Mills believes Newcastle might be better served going after another player, with the 29-year-old’s presence meaning the club would have to play more direct next season.
“I’m unconvinced. He’s done an okay job. I’m not convinced he is the most outstanding striker for that type of level. Are there better strikers Newcastle can get across Europe within their budget? Probably, yes,” Mills told the Football Insider.
“They might have a plan A striker target this summer and Rondon might be the plan B. You have to play a certain way to get the best out of Rondon. He offers something, but I’m not sure he offers what you really need in the Premier League to play a technical-based game.”
OPINION
Mills’ comments around Rondon not being the right target for Newcastle United to pursue this summer might seem vert surprising, especially after the 29-year-old enjoyed an impressive season at the St James’ Park on loan from West Brom. However, if Benitez remains in charge of the Magpies next season he might be looking to adapt the club’s playing style slightly in an attempt to get the club to push towards the top half of the Premier League table. Although Rondon performed well this season he is not the type of striker, as Mills suggests, who you can play a more technical style of play with upfront. The 29-year-old offers a physical presence up front and has the ability to bring others into the game, but if Newcastle were wanting to play more of a passing style next term they might better served looking for a different type of forward this summer.
