Report: Alaves weigh up swoop for Newcastle United misfit Joselu

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Newcastle United outcast Joselu is on the radar of Deportivo Alaves. According to Spanish media outlet AS, Alaves are thinking about launching a move for Joselu.

The 29-year-old has been used very sparingly by Rafa Benitez this season. And he looks set to be granted a summer exit with a return to Spain the most likely option.

Joselu joined Newcastle from Stoke City in 2017 but he has been a flop at St James’ Park. The 6ft 4in centre-forward has scored seven goals in 52 games for Newcastle since this move.

This season, Joselu has only played 20 times, scoring three goals. It is clear that Benitez does not rate the German-born striker and he is ready to leave.

The former Spain U21 international came through the ranks at Celta Vigo before spells with Real Madrid, Hoffenheim, Eintracht Frankfurt, Hannover 96, Stoke and Deportivo La Coruna.

Alaves could now offer Joselu the chance to return to Spain. The mid-table La Liga side are hoping to build on an 11th place finish by bolstering their options.

Joselu could be a target for Alaves with the Magpies willing to let him go. Alternatively, West Ham’s Lucas Perez is a potential option for Alaves.

If Joselu leaves, Newcastle’s striker options will be seriously depleted. Salomon Rondon’s loan has expired (although he will be a target) and in-form Ayoze Perez will probably attract bids.