Sheffield United are once again being linked with a move for Newcastle United striker, Dwight Gayle, according to a report from iNews.
Gayle, 32, is down the pecking order at Newcastle and hasn’t made an impact on the first XI under Eddie Howe, despite Chris Wood struggling to score and Callum Wilson being out injured.
And according to iNews, both United and former manager, Chris Wilder, are keen on bringing the striker back into the Championship. Gayle was last seen at this level with West Brom, where he scored more than 20 goals for the Baggies.
Of course, interest in Gayle from United – and indeed Wilder – is nothing new. The striker was looked at when the Blades were in the Premier League but ended up remaining at St James’ Park. And while he hasn’t played as much as he’d like, Eddie Howe has still been hugely impressed by Gayle.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
What Eddie Howe Has Said About Dwight Gayle
As reported by The Athletic, Howe sung Gayle’s praises last season for his performances in training, where it’s claimed the striker is ‘miserable’ if he’s on the losing team.
“Dwight’s been very good in his training performances and, quite rightly, deserves some sort of recognition from me. He’s someone I respect greatly — he’s a real leader of the group,” Howe said.
“Behind the scenes, his training performances and professionalism have been of the highest level… You have your guys who are playing, but then you have your guys who aren’t playing but are so important to the culture and feel of the group. Dwight’s been pivotal in keeping that very positive.”
Maybe, then, Gayle – who is said to earn around £40k-a-week – would fit this Sheffield United squad quite nicely.
Our View: Gayle The Proven Striker Sheffield United Might Need
At the end of the day, goals win games and United need to replace the output we have lost from Morgan Gibbs-White returning to Wolves.
We have Billy Sharp who is another year older, a returning Rhian Brewster, and Oli McBurnie, who has once again had a frustrating and miserable year in front of goal. Beyond that, Will Osula and Daniel Jebbison are in contention, with David McGoldrick and Lys Mousset both leaving and Oli Burke likely to depart too.
Dwight Gayle knows where the net is, it’s that simple. If United can get him, and get him firing, then it’s a fine summer signing for the Blades.
