Newcastle United are reportedly keen on signing Salomon Rondon, but the West Bromwich Albion star will not come cheap.
Despite the costs, the Chronicle’s suggestion that the two parties are back in contact hints that Benitez is seriously keen to make something happen. And with a number of other sides reportedly interested, Newcastle are perhaps taking a risk not making the move quickly.
Therefore, perhaps Benitez should seriously consider looking to throw Adam Armstrong into the deal as it is difficult to see how a potential swap would not be in all sides’ best interests.
Another report from the Chronicle recently suggested that Armstrong is available this summer. The academy graduate has never quite managed to make the grade with the Magpies, but has shown glimpses of real quality out on loan – in particular, his spell with Coventry in 2015/16 which reaped 20 goals, and his time with Blackburn last term that saw him score nine in 21 games for Tony Mowbray’s men.
He may well be ready to make the step up to the Championship next season, and Darren Moore should seriously consider looking to get him included as part of the deal that sees Rondon head to Newcastle.
With Rondon’s release clause, the Baggies could potentially be powerless to stop the forward from leaving, so accepting a fee below £16.5 million and getting a replacement in immediately should appeal to the West Brom boss.
And for Benitez, he would surely be delighted if a player that he is reportedly willing to consider discarding ultimately helps the Magpies land one of their top targets for this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
