Salomon Rondon is a summer target for Rafa Benitez at Newcastle, according to the Northern Echo.

The Venezuelan striker is becoming a more attractive target by the day due to his £16 million release clause as other clubs ask for significantly larger fees.

Newcastle are unlikely to spend heavily this summer due to Mike Ashley's constraints, so this represents a financially viable move especially because they could probably get a good price for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Islam Slimani was brought in on a loan from Leicester City in January, but he failed to impress and Mitrovic is likely to join Fulham after having an excellent loan spell with the Cottagers in the second half of the season.

This means that Dwight Gayle and Joselu would be the main striker options, so they certainly need an upgrade.

Newcastle do have the talented Adam Armstrong, but he is unlikely to be trusted with a major role.

Rondon scored seven goals and assisted three in 36 league games as he led the line with his physicality and aerial threat being key attributes.

The Verdict

It would be a blow for the Baggies to lose Rondon, but one they will have expected considering his relatively low release clause. They have been heavily linked with Bobby Reid which would be a good signing, although he would offer something completely different. Appointing Moore on a permanent basis could prove to be an excellent decision, though, because they are well prepared to deal with scenarios such as Rondon's departure.

The Magpies need to improve their forward line, so this is a move that would make sense for them. Rondon could in and take the place of Slimani who obviously failed to live up to expectations in a similar manner to Mitrovic. However, it would be a surprise if there isn't more competition for his signature.