Salomon Rondon is no closer to securing a return to Newcastle.
But while talk of a move for the striker is on the back burner amidst the takeover and manager chaos, Rondon is continuing to show why we must sign him permanently this summer.
The 29-year-old was a contender for the Magpies’ player of the season, leading the line expertly. He scored key goals with the number nine on his back, while getting the best out of those around him, notably Ayoze Perez.
He is the perfect striker for a Rafa Benitez side, and you’d struggle to find any fan who doesn’t want him to return.
But all the off-field issues have meant next to no transfer progress. This could see us miss out on Rondon, who has been linked with a £16.5million move to Wolves.
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Rondon shines on the international stage
His club future is uncertain, but Rondon’s next port of call is the Copa America. Venezuela’s preparations for the tournament are going well, beating the USA 3-0 on Sunday night. And of course, Rondon was at the heart of the action.
The West Brom man was involved in all three goals and also created history on the night. He provided a typical Rondon assist, with a headed flick-on allowing Jefferson Savarino to score.
That goal was sandwiched by two Rondon strikes, with the goals writing his name into the history books. He is now Venezuela’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Even on the international stage, he is showing exactly why we need to bring him back next season.