Rafa Benitez wants to bring in a striker this summer while Dwight Gayle is eager to stay at Newcastle United
Newcastle United are looking to bring in a proven centre-forward this summer as Rafa Benitez eyes a solid first season back in the Premier League.
But current number 9 Dwight Gayle has made it clear to United that he has no interest in leaving St James’ Park despite some suggestions in the wider media that the striker could be moved on.
Gayle, who grabbed 23 goals in just 34 appearances last term, is loving life on Tyneside and while southern-based players often head home for the summer, the 26-year-old is enjoying life on Tyneside so much he is set to remain in the area during the close season.
Gayle was in attendance at the Pride of North East awards and enjoyed a fantastic reception at the Civic Centre.
The striker is now keen to be part of the next phase of Benitez’s rebuilding job at United and hopes to get a consistent run in the side as he looks to improve his tally of Premier League goals.
Walthamstow-born Gayle was not a regular starter at Crystal Palace but netted 15 times in 27 starts in the Premier League before Alan Pardew sanctioned his sale to Newcastle just five months before being sacked by the Eagles.
The Magpies have already been linked with Burnley’s Ashley Barnes.
Southampton’s Jay Rodriguez and Burnley’s Andre Gray are also possibilities.
United have signed Christian Atsu from Chelsea on a £6.5million deal and will look to add more depth to their existing squad.
However, Benitez knows he must structure the squad and balance the wage budget with Grant Hanley, Daryl Murphy and Achraf Lazaar set to leave.