If Mike Ashley dips his hands into his pockets, Newcastle fans in the Tavern might just have an exciting season up ahead. 

Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for Alisson Plea this summer although they will have to fight off interest from Werst Ham and Tottenham. Nice are reportedly holding out for a  £27 million fee, which may put the Magpies off any potential deal. With that in mind, the Magpies are now considering a bid for West Brom striker, Salomon Rondon.

The Breakdown

The Chronicle is reporting that United are now considering Rondon as an alternative to Plea. Rafael Benitez is keen to strengthen his forward options, especially with Aleksandar Mitrovic linked with a move to Fulham.

According to the Chronicle, Rondon has a £16.5 million release clause in his contract. Besiktas have also shown an interest in the former Malaga striker who apparently has also been offered to Stoke over the last few days.

While Rondon's release clause may seem incredibly reasonable for a former Premier League striker, Benitez should go nowhere near the forward. The demands of Rondon (who has a Transfermarkt value of £11.7m) and his agent will apparently see the deal raise to over £20 million which if true, is way too much for a striker who's highest single-season Premier League goal tally is nine. With United likely to sell Mitrovic for £20 million, that money should then be used on funding a move for Plea who could well leave Nice for a fee close to £30 million.

In sum, Rafa Benitez would be making a terrible move if he were to sign the West Brom striker.

What do you think Newcastle United fans?