Hit and miss in United’s striker bid

NEWCASTLE United hope to have one new striker on the books by the end of the week – but their attempts to bring in a second have hit a stumbling block.

The Magpies are expecting a decision on Yoshinori Muto’s work permit in the next few days, which could see the Japanese forward become Newcastle’s fifth addition of the summer.

But attempts to sign West Bromwich Albion forward Salomon Rondon have stalled – because current Magpies ace Dwight Gayle has not agreed personal terms with the Baggies.

Muto has agreed terms, passed his medical and a fee of £9.5million has been arranged between Mainz and Newcastle.

He could be in contention for his debut against Augsburg, but Rafa Benitez will make an assessment on his fitness when United return from Portugal.

A United statement last week read: “An agreement has been formalised between the Magpies and Muto’s current club, FSV Mainz 05, and the player has undergone a medical and agreed personal terms.

“The transfer is now subject to the player being issued with a Governing Body Endorsement.”

Benitez is also eagerly anticipating his arrival and said: “Muto is done, but it’s just waiting for the work permit.

“He played in the World Cup in a good team. He has done well in the Bundesliga, so we are talking about a striker doing well at international level.

“He has quality and can bring us energy and good movement plus the intensity you need. I don’t see any problem with him.”

But Gayle’s reluctance to leave has hampered their efforts to add another striker to the squad.

Rondón’s near the top of Rafa Benitez’s summer wanted list but West Brom have made it clear they want Gayle in a swap deal.

But the Toon number nine – who has three years left on his deal – wants to fight for his place at St James’ Park.

It means Newcastle may have to cough up the full £16.5m fee for Rondón should Gayle choose to remain on Tyneside.

Speaking two weeks ago about his future, Gayle said: “I’m loving it here. My family’s all set. For the time being, if the gaffer’s happy with me, I’m happy at to stay.

“The opportunity’s there for me. The gaffer’s given me every opportunity to prove myself.”