Newcastle forward Dwight Gayle has been widely sought-after this summer with his United future in doubt, but the 28-year-old wants to secure a role for himself at St James’ Park next season, according to the Chronicle.
Gayle’s future on Tyneside had been hanging in the balance whilst Rafa Benitez remained at the helm, given the Spaniard had shunned the London-born 28-year-old from his plans, before facilitating a loan swap deal with West Bromwich Albion involving Salomon Rondon.
Fulham, Stoke City, and West Brom have all been touted as potential destinations for the former Arsenal youth player, too, but the Baggies cannot afford to meet our alleged £20million without first parting ways with Rondon.
A move to the Cottagers is also yet to materialise as their pursuit is likewise dependant on players leaving Craven Cottage this summer, with Scott Parker’s side only expected to bid for Gayle should former Toon ace Aleksandar Mitrovic move on from the South West London side following their relegation back into the Championship.
Gayle and Yoshinori Muto may be our only recognised first-team strikers when the new Premier League campaign begins in August, though, as Joselu is expected to leave regardless of who takes up the managerial hot seat. A return for Rondon is likely off the cards, too, given his potential future on Tyneside was dependant on Mike Ashley agreeing to a new contract with Benitez.
Now that the Champions League winner has left and joined Dalian Yifang, a new head coach may be open to offering former Crystal Palace hitman Gayle a rebirth at St James’ Park, which he reportedly now desires.
The 5 ft 8 forward is said to be determined to repeat his second-tier exploits in the top-flight with United next term, having struck 24 goals in the Championship while on loan at the Hawthorns, as they reached the Play-Off Semi-Finals.
Gayle sticking around may prove to be somewhat positive given the club now have to target a replacement for Ayoze Perez, and may also be forced to replace Sean Longstaff with the North Shields-born star heavily linked with Manchester United.