Leeds United have approached Newcastle in a bid to sound out a late move for Dwight Gayle, according to The Northern Echo.
Whites chiefs allegedly see the 28-year-old as a superior replacement for Kemar Roofe than someone like Inter Milan’s Facundo Colidio, as Gayle has proven himself in front of goal in the Championship throughout his career.
United are said to have made several enquires to see if a deal can be struck ahead of Deadline Day, but a move at present leaves Director of Football Victor Orta facing a tough fight to land the forward’s signature.
New Toon boss Steve Bruce is reluctant to part ways with the London-born striker on the eve of his Premier League curtain-raiser at home to Arsenal, but has accepted that Gayle may leave Tyneside before the market slams shut on Thursday if he requests a transfer.
West Bromwich Albion officials have also made contact with Magpies executives within the last 48 hours to discuss a potential return to the Hawthorns for Gayle, as a summer of exits in the West Midlands has eased their financial concerns.
It was expected going into the summer that West Brom would not be able to afford Gayle’s reported £40,000-a-week wage, while Newcastle’s £20million asking price made a permanent deal challenging.
Bruce is due to sit down with the 28-year-old on Tuesday, August 6 to discuss the former Arsenal youth player’s future, where the Newcastle boss hopes he can convince the striker to remain at St James’ Park
Gayle proved his lethal touch in front of goal while on loan with the Baggies during their 2018/19 Championship campaign, as he struck 23 goals in 39 games to end the term as the second-tier’s fourth-top goalscorer.
However, Newcastle have broken their club-record to sign Joelinton from TSG Hoffenheim, while Bruce is expected to partner the Brazilian with Miguel Almiron and fellow summer arrival Allan Saint-Maximin once the duo are fit. This situation has left Gayle concerned over the minutes that may be on offer to him, should he remain on Tyneside.