Report: West Brom plot move to bring Dwight Gayle back from Newcastle

Add as preferred source on Google

West Bromwich Albion are hoping to re-sign Dwight Gayle in the January transfer window, according to The Sun.

Gayle has just returned from injury and Steve Bruce said he will get his chance at Newcastle United. But West Brom are plotting a move to bring Gayle back to the Hawthorns in the new year.

The 29-year-old scored 23 goals for the Baggies last season, helping them reach the play-offs. He was on loan at West Brom while Salomon Rondon went on loan to Newcastle in the other direction.

But Rondon’s move to China – rather than back to Newcastle – dented West Brom’s hopes of re-signing Gayle in the summer. Then an injury put that speculation to bed.

Now that Gayle is fit again, these rumours have resurfaced. The diminutive striker made his comeback recently but faces a battle for regular playing time at St James’ Park.

Bruce believes Gayle can make an impact, though. He told The Chronicle: “I am delighted that he’s around us because he is a very, very good player. And I am delighted he’s here. He can knuckle down now and fight for his chance.” But West Brom will still try to sign him.

TBR’s view

Gayle is a proven marksman in the Championship. With his poacher-like instincts, he is prolific inside the box in the second tier.

However, the former Crystal Palace striker has failed to score as consistently in the Premier League. Part of that is due to injuries. Now that he is back to full fitness, he has just over two months to convince Newcastle he is good enough; otherwise, he could be dropping down a division again.