If the unsettled Demba Ba is going to leave Newcastle United - Pardew wants to know NOW!
The Magpies are hoping to put an end to the uncertainty in time for the start of pre-season training in order to push on with their transfer business – with TWO new strikers thought to be under consideration.
If Ba stays - which at the moment seems unlikely - the Toon boss will cut his cloth to suit.
FC Twente star Luuk De Jong and Montpellier man Olivier Giroud are thought to be on Newcastle’s hit-list, and Ba is still holding his cards close to his chest.
Although Ba was instrumental in bring Papiss Cisse to the club, the Toon No 19 has not been settled since, having been moved out wide in a position he does not like.
Senegal international Ba has yet to notify the Magpies of a decision on his future.
Ba’s contract contains a £7m release clause which can be activated until July 31 – after which time Newcastle can then demand whatever fee they wish for the 16-goal star.
Targeted by Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, Ba returns to Pardew’s squad for pre-season training on July 5.
The striker must also report to the club’s Benton base in the days building up to pre-season for routine fitness testing.
Pardew has concerns over the winter months – a period which could see him denied the services of both Ba and hotshot Papiss Cisse when they travel to South Africa for the African Cup of Nations next January and could be missing for up to six weeks.