Salomón Rondón Hints a Potential Newcastle United Return
By Robbie Walls
Venezuelan striker Salomón Rondón has hinted at the possibility of a return to former club Newcastle United.
The striker is currently plying his trade for Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang, yet enjoyed an impressive spell on loan at St. James' Park in the 2018/19 season - finishing the season with 11 league goals.
The potential Saudi takeover at the club has lead to numerous rumours of possible transfers as well as managerial appointments - even if the takeover itself may still be in doubt.
One name who continues to be linked with the hot seat is that of former manager Rafael Benitez.
The Spaniard is currently managing Rondón in China, and is highly regarded among Magpies' supporters for keeping the club in the Premier League despite the ongoing turmoil of the Mike Ashley ownership.
The former Liverpool manager left the club after frequent grievances over lack of transfer funds, and thus could be enticed back to the club with the promise of vast investment.
As for Rondón, the forward explained to TNT Sports that: “There was a lot of talk about what happened at Newcastle with the purchase of the Saudi group, there are a lot of rumours about the interest, but you have to wait. My present at the moment is in China.
“I have worked very well with Rafa for a year and a half. But you have to wait and see what happens. I would not look badly on a return to the Premier League," the former West Brom man added.
Any potential return of Benitez could see the striker follow suit, particularly as he enjoyed such a positive season in the north east as the club's focal point and number nine.
While he hasn't exactly been prolific thus far in China, he has delivered five goals and seven assists, and would provide some much needed striking reinforcement at the club.
Steve Bruce's current £40m striker Joelinton has failed miserably to repay his substantial transfer fee, and thus the club could look for a trusted replacement - with or without a potential new owner.