Newcastle United have been linked with West Bromwich Albion pair Ahmed Hegazi and Salomon Rondon in recent times.
According to a report from the Express and Star, West Brom have received a major boost ahead of the new Championship season with the release clauses in the contracts of Ahmed Hegazi, Nacer Chadli and Salomon Rondon all expiring – and that news may well catch the eye of Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez.
The Baggies fans have probably been expecting a number of key players to move on this summer following the club’s relegation from the Premier League last season, especially after Jonny Evans’ swift departure and Ben Foster’s apparent u-turn earlier in the window.
The news is certainly likely to alert Newcastle. The Express and Star alludes to the Magpies wanting Rondon on loan, while ESPN reported earlier this week that Benitez wanted to trigger Hegazi’s release clause and bring him to St James’ Park.
Newcastle may not have had an interest in activating Rondon’s release clause perhaps, but the fact that West Brom seemingly now have a lot more control over his future may perhaps leave the Baggies feeling a lot more relaxed about his situation and less interested in a loan swap with Dwight Gayle as they do not need to worry about what would happen if another club comes in at the final minute and offers £16.5 million.
And of course, the situation regarding Hegazi is a lot simpler. West Brom can theoretically set any asking price they like in the hope that they can keep the Egyptian until they return to the top flight.
Darren Moore will be hoping that that top flight return comes in the next 12 months. The Baggies start life in the second tier against Bolton on Saturday.
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