OPINION
From an outside perspective, it seems that there are three main things Newcastle United fans are looking for this summer.
Firstly, and most optimistically, the Toon Army want rid of Mike Ashley. After a prolonged period of stagnation and regression, not to mention blatant disregard for the feelings of the fanbase, it is surely time that the controversial owner threw in the towel on his Tyneside venture.
Secondly, and very importantly, the club needs to tie Rafa Benitez down to a new deal. The Spaniard has been a revelation at St. James’ Park, and without his intervention, and his loyalty to the club during some sticky spells, it doesn’t bear thinking about where they might have ended up.
Finally, and arguably least important, most United fans will be hoping the club can land Salomon Rondon on a permanent deal.
The 6’1″ striker [Transfermarkt] was a real difference maker for the Magpies last season, and with his 12 goals and seven assists, he was a valuable in a mid table finish that looked desperately unlikely for a large portion of the season.
Obviously, he is now back with West Brom after his loan deal came to an end, but affordable strikers of his calibre are one of the rarest commodities in football, and Newcastle have to snap him up.
That task could be made a whole lot harder by the fact that Marseille are understood to have entered to fray to sign the South American.
According to the French outlet La Provence, the club, who competed in the Europa League last season, are keen on taking him to the continent.
That should be a worry for Newcastle.
Mike Ashley is not inclined to get involved in bidding wars, and the more competition, especially from sides with European credentials, the more you doubt United’s ability to get this one over the line.
Newcastle need to pull their finger out.
