Newcastle United chairman Mike Ashley is reluctant to sign striker Salomon Rondon on a permanent basis, when his loan deal from West Bromwich Albion expires at the end of the season.

Reports from the Daily Star claim that, despite the Magpies having the option to join any interested club in a £16.5million pursuit of the Venezuelan forward, the club's chairman Mike Ashley is reluctant to pay big for the striker, because of his age.

The 29-year old has caught the eye at St. James' Park this season after a string of impressive performances for Rafa Benitez' men - his free-kick against AFC Bournemouth last week took his tally up to 10 goals in 28 appearances for the North East club this term.

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The powerful forward penned a season-long loan move from West Brom in the summer, in an exchange with striker Dwight Gayle who has been a revelation for the Baggies since his switch to the Hawthorns.

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West Brom currently sit 4th in the Sky Bet Championship table, seven points off the automatic promotion spots following the sacking of Darren Moore a fortnight ago.

The Verdict

This could act as a massive blow for both Newcastle and West Brom, with the player valuable for both clubs.

From a West Brom perspective, his sale could be beneficial for the club if they remain in the second tier next season.

£16million would be a lot of money to receive for any club in the Championship, so Ashley's recent claims could be a setback for all involved.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.