Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez and owner Mike Ashley are set for a disagreement over the long-term future of forward Salomon Rondon.
Rondon is currently on a season-long loan deal from Championship side West Brom, and has become a firm fan’s favourite at St James’ Park scoring nine league goals so far this season.
Benitez is keen to secure the Venezuelan international on a permanent basis this summer, with Newcastle having the option to sign Rondon for a fee of £16.5m, should West Brom fail to earn promotion this season.
Despite the forward’s impressive season in the North East, owner Ashley has concerns regarding the player’s resale value, with Rondon set to turn 30 in September.
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The Chronicle are reporting that Ashley wants the club to revert back to a model of signing players under the age of 26, having moved away from this recruitment policy in recent seasons.
Ashley is reportedly willing to sanction another big-money signing this summer, having broken the club’s long-standing transfer record with the capture of Miguel Almiron in January.
Hoffeinheim forward Joelinton has been rumoured as a potential target, though it is believed Benitez would want the 22-year-old as well as Rondon.
Benitez is in the final few months of his contract at Newcastle, and has yet to open talks regarding an extension whilst recruitment plans are discussed.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager is seeking assurances he will be backed significantly in the transfer market before committing his long-term future to the club.