During their weekly question and answer session, the Chronicle report Newcastle will listen to January offers for Dwight Gayle, without publicising it to clubs, although there is already interest.
Mark Douglas revealed he believes any permanent incoming deals could depend on permanent outgoing ones, with replacements for any players sold being sought.
He said: “In terms of permanent transfers, my feeling is that it’ll depend on whether anyone with first team potential is sold.
“They’ll be listening to offers for Dwight Gayle – although don’t expect that to be advertised publicly – and if he leaves, a replacement would be possible.”
His point raises an interesting question, however: If they are willing to let Gayle go, why not let other clubs know he may be available?
The likely answer is because Steve Bruce is a reluctant seller, and it may be the player’s decision to leave – not the football club’s.
Gayle should be sold and a better quality replacement sought
I have maintained for a while that Gayle should be sold, and the fee used towards a better quality replacement. He is prolific in the Championship, but struggles in the Premier League – the stats back that up.
There are Championship clubs – all too aware of his goal to game ratio in the second tier – who are ready and waiting to be given the slightest encouragement to do a deal for the striker.
West Brom’s interest has been longstanding, ever since his successful loan spell there last season. But Nottingham Forest are also reported to be keen, as they look to maintain their promotion push in the second half of the season.
With the lack of minutes on the pitch after returning to fitness, it looks increasingly clear his future lies away from Tyneside, and cashing in on Gayle in January would be a positive outcome for all parties – as long as Newcastle have time to replace him.
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