Rafael Benitez comments on Newcastle striker Salomon Rondon

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Salomon Rondon joined Newcastle United on loan from West Bromwich Albion in the summer of 2018.

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has suggested to The Shields Gazette that he wants to sign West Bromwich Albion-owned striker Salomon Rondon in the summer of 2019.

Rondon joined Newcastle on loan from Championship club West Brom in the summer of 2018.

So far this season, the Venezuela international striker made 17 starts and two substitute appearances in the Premier League for the Magpies, scoring six goals and providing three assists in the process, according to WhoScored.

Newcastle manager Benitez has suggested that the Magpies could sign the former Zenit Saint Petersburg star on a permanent basis in the summer of 2019.

The former Liverpool boss has also suggested what Rondon needs to do between now and the end of the season to earn a permanent move to Newcastle.

When asked if it would be a risk to sign Rondon given his age and likely price tag in the summer, Benitez told The Shields Gazette: “Always, it’s a problem or a risk to sign anyone in the Premier League, because it’s very demanding.

“But when they have been here in the Premier League, and after they come here and they perform, it’s an easy decision.”

Benitez added: It’s too early to talk about that (Rondon’s future). He just needs to focus on trying to do well and score goals.”

Good striker

Six goals in 19 Premier League appearances is not exactly a great record, but it must be acknowledged that Rondon is playing in a team who do not create much.

With the arrival of Miguel Almiron in the January transfer window, perhaps that will change, and the St. James’ Park faithful might now see the striker score more goals more regularly.