Transfer Big Sal?

His home country Venezuela is in crisis with schools closing down, people out of work and electricity blackouts currently causing chaos.

Rondon has been posting messages on his social media account to “pray for Venezuela” and offer his support.

He is a humble guy who appreciates his surroundings here.

Rondon sees wearing the No 9 shirt as a real honour and when asked if he wanted to continue doing so last season, he said: “They (Newcastle officials) 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 will stay here 100%.”

In the past Newcastle have operated more like a profit-hungry business than a football club, prioritising age and potential resale value over a player’s ability to make an immediate impact and tactical fit.

Signing Rondon would represent a change in the club’s stance and if Benitez wants to keep hold of his star striker he will have to stress how difficult it would be to replace him with a younger, cheaper model. Rondon brings so much on the field to his side.

His hold-up play is fantastic, he wins more aerial balls than anybody in the team in most matches and he scores and creates goals. He could well be the difference between Newcastle staying up and being dragged back into the Championship.

If Rondon’s presence continues to bring out the best in big-money addition Miguel Almiron – a player the striker has taken under his wing – and Ayoze Perez, who has blossomed alongside the ex-Malaga man, the asking price for his services could prove to be a snip. United may feel that there are other answers out there but at the moment they have a No 9 who is capable of leading the charge next season.

Even at 29, Rondon seems to be worth the figures mentioned.

For Benitez and United, he is priceless.