OPINION
Salomon Rondon quickly cemented himself as a hero at St James’ Park during his loan spell last season, so much so that Newcastle United want to bring the Venezuelan back to the club permanently.
The 29-year-old joined in a loan deal which saw Magpies’ forward Dwight Gayle go the other way to West Brom for a temporary stay at the Hawthorns.
After both enjoyed such good seasons in their respective leagues, West Brom have reportedly targeted Gayle for a possible permanent move as well.
One sticking point of any move is the Midlands’ club being able to afford Gayle’s top flight wages, with Rondon needing to leave before any possible deal can be concluded.
This doesn’t halt Rafael Benitez’ pursuit of Rondon, with the Spaniard reportedly now entering pole position for the striker’s signature this summer.
Another thing that has worked in the Magpies’ favour, is the fact that Rondon is entering the final year of his current deal, meaning if the Baggies do not figure out a way to sell the forward, he will become a free transfer next year.
The Express & Star journalist Matt Wilson has reported on his personal Twitter account that Rondon has no intention of returning to West Brom, who would need an auction to earn the reported asking price of £16.5million.
As for the Rondon factor, Albion's negotiating stance isn't that strong because he only has one year left. They need to sell (or risk him leaving for nothing next summer). Requires an auction to get it to the £16.5m release clause. He has no intention of returning.
— Matt Wilson (@mattianwilson) June 16, 2019
Newcastle must use this report as a way to earn a better deal for Rondon, who scored 11 goals for them in the Premier League last season. With other potential suitors such as Wolves not interested now, reportedly because of the asking price, the chance of an auction is slim for Slaven Bilic.
If Bilic would like Rondon off of his wage bill, while also entertaining the idea of bringing Gayle to the club, the Croatian may be forced to settle for less than the reported £16.5million – something that can only benefit Newcastle.
The striker formed a great partnership with Ayoze Perez and Miguel Almiron towards the end of the last campaign, with his physicality and ability to hold up the ball proving the perfect addition to their skill and flair in the final third.
