With West Bromwich Albion triggering a year-extension on Salomon Rondon’s contract, Rafa Benitez needs to assess his options.
The Baggies triggering an extra year on his contract will mean the Magpies will not be able to secure the services of the front-man on the cheap. Considering Rafa Benitez seems to be working under budget response, he should perhaps turn his attention to other targets.
In the summer, the Spanish boss at St James Park made extensive use of loans and free-transfers. Rafa signed Ki Sung-yeung on a free transfer from Swansea City, and secured loan-deals for Kenedy from Chelsea, and Salomon Rondon himself from the Hawthorns outfit.
Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins is hot property at the moment. The striker has two goals in two appearances for Brentford so far this season, including an equaliser away at Stoke City.
Watkins, who has worked his way up to Brentford from playing in the basement division with Exeter City, is a truly gifted front-man.
He has a keen eye for goal, great dribbling ability and has developed a good strength whilst with the West London outfit.
Considering Rafa Benitez is working under budget constraints, looking to the second tier might be a sensible strategy for the Spaniard to consider.
Kemar Roofe
Another option in the Championship, Rafa Benitez should really consider approaching Leeds United for Kemar Roofe.
After six months of working under Argentine Marcelo Bielsa, Roofe will likely have improved even more. The 25-year-old scored in the Whites 4-1 victory at Pride Park over Frank Lampard’s Derby. He is a great option in a front-two, but does not favour the lone striker role.
Kemar Roofe is valued at £3.15m by Transfermarkt. This would be a very sensible low-budget move, if Benitez cannot keep hold of Rondon.
