Newcastle United striker ‘on borrowed time’ after update on Hugo Ekitike talks – pundit
Dwight Gayle will leave Newcastle United this summer with Hugo Ekitike set to take his place in Eddie Howe’s squad.
That is the view of former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Gayle’s future at St. James’ Park.
Gayle, 32, has two years remaining on his contract with the Magpies.
The Northern Echo‘s Scott Wilson reported (13 June) that Championship clubs Middlesbrough and West Brom are interested in signing the centre-forward this summer.
A return to The Hawthorns would see Gayle reunited with ex-Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce.
According to Sky Sports (7 June), the Magpies have held positive talks with Hugo Ekitike representatives regarding a move to the north-east club.
When asked by Football Insider if Ekitike’s arrival would spell the end for Gayle on Tyneside, Campbell said: “I think so.
“I think Gayle is on borrowed time at Newcastle. His time was probably up last season. He was used very sparingly.
“Newcastle are going for top-quality players now. They are only going to get stronger. It will be interesting to see how these things move.
“One thing is for sure, Dwight Gayle’s future is away from St. James’. I expect him to leave sooner rather than later.”
Gayle joined the Toon from Crystal Palace in July 2016 for more than £10million.
He has scored 34 goals in 122 games across all competitions.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has claimed Newcastle United may be forced into a ‘compensation’ payout after PIF terminate a lucrative deal.