Newcastle United striker Dwight Gayle is reportedly a target for Fulham.
The Daily Mail say the 30-year-old is a long-term target for the Cottagers, who are keen to sign Gayle now rather than wait until his contract expires in the summer.
Apparently, Fulham officials have discussed the idea of offering an incentivised deal that would see them pay a small fee now, which would then increase if Gayle helped Fulham stay up.
Scott Parker’s side are facing a relegation battle this season and has Aleksandr Mitrovic as his only recognised striker.
Fulham aren’t the only side looking at Gayle; Qatari outfits Al-Gharafa and Al-Duhail are also mentioned as being keen, as well as Saudi side Al-Shabab.
Gayle has once again struggled for fitness this season, and has only made six appearances for the club so far.
His absence has meant Steve Bruce has pretty much had to rely on Callum Wilson, who has scored eight goals in 16 appearances.
Newcastle shouldn’t seek to sell
Gayle may only have months remaining on his contract, but Newcastle should only seek to sell if they can get a decent replacement in.
The £40,000-a-week star (Spotrac) may still have a part to play for the Magpies come the end of the season, by which point Wilson may need to be rotated due to fatigue.
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Bruce stand in the way of any potential January exit for Gayle, given the manager has often praised Gayle during his time at the club.
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