OPINION
Newcastle United need to bring in a new striker this summer, that much is very clear.
Dwight Gayle has failed to translate his Championship heroics to the top-flight with just five goals this season, while summer signing Joselu has managed just four.
Ayoze Perez has scored seven in all competitions including three in his last five, but the Spaniard is clearly not an out-and-out striker and is best played in behind.
Finally, loan striker Islam Slimani, who the club pinned their hopes on this January, looks to be on his way out of Tyneside with no goals to his name after a violent conduct charge means he may miss their remaining three games.
Goals have been an issue all season for Rafa Benitez’s men, with the Magpies netting just a goal per game on average across the campaign, and something must be done about that this summer.
One possible target for the club has come into focus in recent days, and there may now be an opening for Newcastle to swoop in and secure a sensational return for a former fan favourite.
As reported by the Evening Standard, Andy Carroll’s future at West Ham is looking far from certain after an explosive training ground bust-up with manager David Moyes.
The striker was unhappy with Moyes’ decision to leave him on the bench during their 4-1 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, and stormed down the tunnel while making his feelings quite clear.
The 29-year-old is then said to have confronted the boss at the club’s Rush Green training complex, before being sent home after refusing to apologise.
Securing a return for Carroll would be a big risk for Newcastle considering his massive £100,000-a-week wages and his poor injury record, but the rewards would be so great.
He is one of their own, having come through the club’s academy before going on to be a first-team star at St. James’ Park and becoming a fan favourite in the process.
On the pitch he is unplayable on his day and a handful for any defence, with the 6ft 4in striker able to give the Magpies a different dimension and a presence up front.
At 29 years old, Carroll is at the peak of his powers and now is the only time a return to Tyneside would be worth it for Newcastle.
With his time at West Ham coming to an end, this is a no-brainer as Newcastle look to revamp their forward line and climb the table next season.