Report gives update on Dwight Gayle’s Newcastle future as Stoke plan bid

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Championship hopefuls Stoke City are reportedly keen to raid Premier League Newcastle United for Dwight Gayle.

Aleksandar Mitrovic is not the only Newcastle United striker facing an uncertain future this summer.

Stoke City may be set to sign Benik Afobe from Wolverhampton Wanderers as they look to put together a strikeforce capable of taking the Championship by storm but the Potters are still keen on a deal for Dwight Gayle, too.

The Mirror (live blog, 6.22pm) reports that new Stoke boss Gary Rowett is hoping to pair Afobe and Gayle together in a strike-partnership that would be the envy of almost every other club in England’s second tier.

But would Newcastle sell their number nine?

According to the Chronicle, Gayle is happy on Tyneside and would prefer to stay at St James’ Park beyond this summer. But it is understood that Newcastle will only consider selling the former Crystal Palace man if they bring in striking reinforcements themselves that would serve to push him down the pecking order.

Rafa Benitez obviously does not want to leave himself short of striking options, with Mitrovic expected to be on his way, too. Joselu, the much-maligned Spaniard, is the only other natural striker in Newcastle’s squad.

Furthermore, the report adds that Newcastle would want at least £10 million for Gayle.

But, if Benitez can finally bring in some much-needed additions with the likes of Bas Dost, Jay Rodriguez and Salomon Rondon linked in recent days, do not rule out Gayle leaving this summer.