Magpies no nearer deal for Rondon

NEWCASTLE United have not managed to negotiate a price for Salomon Rondon in recent weeks – despite his pleas to stay at St James’ Park beyond this season.

It means that other clubs could move for the striker’s signature at the end of the season when he returns to West Bromwich Albion and his escape clauses become active once again.

Last summer Rafa Benitez had to battle with the Magpies board just to get the club to bring in the forward on a loan deal, with club officials concerned about Rondon’s age.

Two different transfer packages are in place depending on which division West Brom are in next season.

The price Newcastle will have to pay if Darren Moore’s side fail to win promotion will revert to £16.5million like it did last summer.

However, should West Brom reclaim their top-flight place, Newcastle will have to come up with a much bigger fee.

It still remains to be seen whether United will decide to make the Baggies an offer for the Venezulean, although any deal does not depend on Dwight Gayle, who is currently on loan with the Championship side.

The former Crystal Palace ace is due to return to Newcastle at the end of the season and he will be expected to report back to Benton in early July for pre-season training.

Rondon, who is the Magpies’ top scorer this season, gave his views on the situation this week when he told the Chronicle: “They know what I want and what my family want.

“I have spoken with them and made it clear. If there is an opportunity for me to be here - I’ll stay here 100%.

“If not I will say thank you to everybody and see what happens next.”