Newcastle United were reportedly amongst the group of Premier League sides who enquired about signing the West Bromwich Albion star.
Rodriguez appears to be one of the most highly sought-after players in the Championship following West Brom’s relegation from the top flight last season. The former Southampton ace enjoyed a decent first year at The Hawthorns, scoring 11 goals for the Baggies.
Sky Sports reports that Burnley have made an improved bid of £18 million for Rodriguez and he is keen to return to Turf Moor six years after leaving the Clarets in the first place. However, the report adds that he is willing to stay if a deal cannot be agreed – West Brom are said to want more than £20 million for the 29-year-old.
It would be a big surprise if the Magpies ended up going back in for Rodriguez before this week’s deadline. Rafa Benitez has strengthened his striker ranks with the loan deal for Salomon Rondon and the permanent signing of Yoshinori Muto.
And unless something seriously dramatic happens, it seems difficult to imagine that Benitez would get the green light to go back in for Rodriguez given that West Brom are looking for a fee that would smash Newcastle’s club record for a player who turns 30 next summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
