Newcastle United are unlikely to sell Dwight Gayle next month, according to The Athletic.

The 30-year-old has fallen out of favour at St James' Park leaving his long-term future in the balance.

With a contract that is due to expire at the end of the season there has been plenty of speculation over Gayle's future with numerous clubs linked with a move for the frontman.

Derby County are one of the clubs who have been linked with a move, however their interest has not been solidified with a bid.

Assuming that Newcastle won't offer Gayle a new deal, January will be the club's last chance to offload Gayle for a fee, but according to Stuart James of The Athletic a move away next month is unlikely.

Writing for The Athletic, James said: "The last thing that Newcastle United would have wanted to happen is for Dwight Gayle to leave on a free next summer.

"It is hard to see the club accepting a bid for the striker in January and running the risk of leaving themselves short of options up front for the remainder of the season."

Quiz: Did these 17 Derby County players ever actually score a league goal for the club?

The Verdict

The situation surrounding Dwight Gayle's future is a strange one.

Clearly not a part of Newcastle United's long-term plans, the striker's career has certainly stalled in recent years and for his benefit it is surely time to move on.

It seems that this won't happen in January, but a number of clubs in the EFL will surely be keen to make a move.