According to the latest reports from Wales Online, Venezuelan star Salomon Rondon is keen to join Newcastle United permanently over the summer transfer window. The forward has done the star turn for the Magpies this season on numerous occasions, and it is no surprise that even the striker now wants a move to St. James’ Park.
The 29-year-old forward is going to enter the final 12 months of his contract with West Brom. The Baggies are unlikely to keep hold of him if they fail to move up a division. The Toon were always going to be interested in signing Rondon permanently over the summer after the forward managed to play a major role in ensuring United’s Premier League survival.
Benitez recently revealed what he said to Rondon about the future. The Spanish manager said (Shields Gazette), ”Talking about him scoring against Argentina and then losing to Catalonia, I said ‘everyone is talking about your future’ but told him just concentrate on scoring goals, and that’s it. That’s what he says as well, Everyone wants to know what is going on, but he cannot change things now.”
It is not yet hundred per cent certain that the Tyneside outfit would be able to get their man permanently. However, the latest update about the player himself wanting a move might make matters easier for Benitez in terms of negotiating with West Brom.
It was believed that the former Liverpool manager wanted to activate Rondon’s £16.5m release clause last summer. But the board wasn’t prepared to spend that kind of money on a striker who was in his late twenties. Therefore Benitez had to hatch up another plan as he brought the forward on loan by sending Dwight Gayle the other way.
After his performance this season, the club hierarchy now should have faith in Benitez over his transfer choice, and they should look to back him to sign Rondon permanently. His physicality, pace and hold up play is tailor-made for the Magpies’ playing style. However, the Baggies might demand a decent sum now that the forward has proven his worth at St. James’ Park.
Starting with the Venezuelan up front, United can always have an out ball as they have a direct approach when they win possession. Rondon’s hold up play also allows someone like Ayoze Perez to get into the game and the duo has formed a solid partnership up top. Even though the striker is already 29, his impact at the club cannot be ignored. Newcastle should do everything in their means to sign him permanently now that it is clear that the forward himself wants a permanent move.
