Would you take him folks?
Rafa Benitez 'interested' in signing striker after £16m release clause is revealed - Report
by Olly Hawkins · 10 June 2018, 18:06
Newcastle United are 'showing interest' in signing West Brom striker Salomon Rondon according to the Daily Mail, with the Venezuelan powerhouse available for £16m following their relegation to the Championship last month.
It was confirmed two months ago that the striker had a £16m get out clause if the Baggies dropped into the second tier this summer (something they were unable to avoid) - and if the Daily Mail are to be believed, we are one of the clubs interested in signing.
Here's the intriguing snippet from Simon Jones' latest piece on West Brom's transfer activity this summer:
"West Bromwich Albion are lining up a £3.5million bid for Brentford’s talented midfielder Romaine Sawyers and have proposed a £7m deal for Bristol City forward Bobby Reid.
"Albion expect to lose Jay Rodriguez and Salomon Rondon with Burnley and Newcastle United respectively among those showing interest. "
The 6ft 2′ forward has never been prolific across his three seasons in the Premier League so far (averages 9 goals a season), but he is an impressive athlete, a hard worker, and big unit capable of leading the line on his own and bringing others into play.
One concern is the fact £16m isn't exactly cheap for a 28-year-old who is yet to enjoy a prolific season in the Premier League. He's a definite handful and someone who could fit quite nicely into Benitez's system, but it'd be a risk given a 'proven goalscorer' appears to be high on Rafa's wish-list.
Personally, I think he'd be a useful signing - but only IF we signed a slightly more proven striker to compete with him (which is probably unlikely if Rondon will demand a £16m fee).
