Newcastle United’s only attacking addition this summer has been Yoshinori Muto, who is awaiting a work permit.
Newcastle United’s long-winded pursuit for a new talismanic striker looks set to enter the final week of this summer’s transfer window, as reported talks continue for Salomon Rondon.
It is believed the Toon are still in talks over a deal to sign the Venezuelan ace, whether that be by meeting his £16.5million relegation release clause or a player-plus-cash deal involving Dwight Gayle.
But with just over a week remaining in this summer’s window, which slams shut on August 9 at 5pm, Rafa Benitez must draw up a shortlist of names who can be signed quickly in case a deal for Rondon slips through.
Even if the club do sign Rondon, Newcastle may still require a striker as Joselu continues to struggle – especially if a swap deal does see Gayle go. It should see Benitez reconsider a fellow Spaniard from the Premier League.
Indeed, Italian outlet Correire di Roma claim Serie A side Lazio have been told they must pay a bargain £7million for Arsenal striker Lucas Perez this summer – after the Gunners first signed him from Deportivo for £16million.
Lazio are interested in landing the Spanish ace, who managed just 21 appearances in all competitions in 2016-17 for Arsenal. Last term, he was loaned back to Deportivo for the season, scoring nine goals and creating eight in 37.
The Chronicle suggested Newcastle wanted Perez last summer but were unwilling to meet his £13.5million asking price. Now, it is almost half of that.
At such a small figure, Newcastle can surely afford the deal after offloading Aleksandar Mitrovic to Fulham for a fee well above the £20million mark. For just £7million, Perez is an absolute bargain and one Newcastle must sign.
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