Newcastle must sell Dwight Gayle amid West Brom loan rumours – opinion

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Steve Bruce reportedly wants to be reunited with Newcastle United’s Dwight Gayle.

That’s according to the Sunday Mirror (page 68), who claimed at the weekend that West Brom want to sign the out-of-favour striker in the summer.

However, the report states the Baggies are interested in a loan move rather than a permanent deal due to Gayle’s big wages. The former West Brom loanee reportedly earns £40,000-a-week according to Spotrac.

While West Brom reportedly just want to sign Gayle temporarily, the Newcastle owners must endeavour to get rid of the forward for good.

Dwight Gayle hasn’t been needed at Newcastle for a while

Since Eddie Howe became manager, Gayle has barely kicked a ball. He came on late in the day against Chelsea, but his only involvement saw him get booked.

That was just his second appearance under the new manager. In fact, it was only his fifth Premier League appearance all season.

He didn’t play that much last season either. The 32-year-old made 18 league appearances, but only four of them were starts. He managed just one goal – the winner against West Brom in December 2021.

Gayle simply isn’t needed at St James’ Park anymore. He is merely a backup – there in case of emergency.

Howe has no use for Gayle, and he needs to leave the club this summer. But sending him out on loan is merely a short-term solution.

It was mad to see him sign a new three-year deal last year. Yes, it protected his value, but it was merely done because it was deemed cheaper than signing a replacement.

But now money isn’t an issue for Newcastle, following the takeover last year.

The Magpies will be linked with plenty of players in the summer, and will likely sign another striker to join Callum Wilson and Chris Wood.

Gayle will slip even further down the pecking order, beyond the point of no return. Whether it’s to West Brom or elsewhere, Newcastle simply must sell Gayle this summer.