Rafael Benitez revealed Newcastle United striker Dwight Gayle could still be at the club next season.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has revealed that centre-forward Dwight Gayle could end up staying with the club for the new season.
The 27-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away this summer, as the Magpies look to reshuffle their attacking options.
According to Sky Sports, Gayle’s proposed loan switch to West Bromwich Albion looks unlikely to go through right now, because they are not willing to fork out for his wages.
The same report claims that the potential switch of Baggies striker Salomon Rondon to Newcastle has stalled, too.
Benitez was quizzed about the potential future of Gayle amid speculation and he gave an emphatic response when asked if he could be at St James’ Park for the start of the season.
“Yeah he could be [staying],” Benitez told Sky Sports in a press conference after his side lost 4-0 to Braga in a friendly.
Gayle has proved throughout his career that he is a lethal finisher at Championship level; something that has surely attracted West Brom following their relegation to England’s second tier.
However, the speed machine has not quite had the same success in the top flight and that is why he has been linked with an exit this summer.
He did make 38 Newcastle appearances across all competitions last season, scoring six goals and supplying four assists in return.
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