Newcastle reportedly handed boost in quest to permanently sign 29-year-old

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Newcastle United finished the 2018/19 campaign in 13th place and there is plenty of scope for improvement next season. 

The Magpies will hope to get Rafa Benitez tied down to a new deal first. The Spaniard’s current contract expires this summer and as of yet no fresh terms have been agreed.

Newcastle defeated Fulham 4-0 on the final day of the season. Venezuelan striker Salomon Rondon signed off his season-long loan by completing the rout over Scott Parker’s hapless team.

The striker has adhered himself to the Newcastle faithful but he will now return to parent club West Bromwich Albion.

The Baggies were defeated in the Championship play-off semi-final last night and that bodes well for Newcastle in the quest to sign Rondon permanently.

According to Chronicle Live, the Albion’s failure to get promotion straight back to the Premier League means that Rondon can leave for £16.5 million. The valuation was expected to be considerably more had they reached the top-flight once again this season. Rondon is paid £60k-a-week, according to Spotrac.

This news should delight Benitez and Newcastle must press ahead to get the signing wrapped up. The 29-year-old scored 12 goals and registered seven assists this season, building up quite a rapport with the Magpies supporters.

It is vital that Benitez adds to his ranks – provided he signs a new deal. Getting the permanent signing of Rondon over the line would be a great start to what will probably be a big summer for the club.