OPINION
Newcastle have reportedly demanded £18million for their striker Dwight Gayle this summer.
The Daily Star claim that the 26-year-old has been deemed surplus to requirements at St James’ Park after slipping down the pecking order, with manager Rafael Benitez concerned over his reoccurring hamstring problem.
It is understood that the north East club have to sell players before bringing in any fresh faces and that they have told Leeds they want £18million for Gayle.
The report details that Championship outfit Leeds are eyeing a move for the English forward as they look to replace the void left by Chris Wood.
Newcastle are only planning to allow Gayle’s departure once they have a replacement lined up.
Gayle remains a first-team player at Newcastle for now and played an integral role in achieving promotion from the Championship, scoring an impressive 23 league goals.
Good move for Newcastle?
Gayle appeared to be the first-choice striker going into the new campaign, but a couple of poor performances have seen him fall behind Aleksandar Mitrovic and Joselu.
The forward is in the odd position of being prolific in the Championship, but someone who struggles with the step up to the Premier League.
Benitez’s side would be very pleased if they could get £18million for Gayle and it would give them the opportunity to invest in a prolific top-flight striker.
However, it could be seen as a big risk letting go someone who was instrumental in the team’s success last season.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
The report states that Newcastle won’t sell Gayle until they find an alternative and time is running out in the transfer window.
Gayle’s omission from the squad against West Ham has come as a major shock and it would be odd for the Magpies to sell one of their best players from last season whatever the cost.
Additionally, Leeds are very unlikely to be able to fork out £18million on a new player and could pursue alternatives to Gayle.
This Is Futbol rating: 2/10