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Rondon opens up on fresh talks with Newcastle

By Durim Halimi

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Salomon Rondon of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town at St. James Park on February 23, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Salomon Rondon of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town at St. James Park on February 23, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) /
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Salomon Rondon has publicly announced that he has held talks with Newcastle United about a permanent deal.

Salomon Rondon has been the center of attention lately as Newcastle United must make a decision on whether or not they will permanently sign the Venezuelan striker. Rondon is playing on Tyneside as a loanee from West Brom, but his contract will expire in mid-May and this is causing a dilemma around St. James’ Park.

At present, Rondon is the club’s top scorer with seven goals in the Premier League and he has also bagged four assists, making him directly involved in 11 of Newcastle’s 26 goals this season. It is also worth mentioning that he has struck the post on three occasions this season. With nine matches left on the schedule, Rondon hopes to break into double figures. This is what Newcastle’s number nine had to say about his talks with the club’s executives in an interview with the Chronicle:

"I have spoken with them and made it clear. If there is an opportunity for me to be here – I’ll stay here 100%. If not I will say thank you to everybody and see what happens next.[…]I play with the number 9 on my back and it’s a pleasure for me. I am still on loan but if I get to stay here then I’ll be at a beautiful place."

Pay the Money, Mike

It is quite obvious that Rondon wants to stay, Benitez wants to keep him and the Toon Army are pleased with the Venezuelan international, so sign him to a permanent contract. He has exceeded expectations on Tyneside by scoring meaningful goals, setting his teammates up with goals and his ability to win and hold the ball until support arrives is unmatched on the roster.

Recent reports claiming that Rondon has established a close relationship with new signing Miguel Almiron is also a major plus for the club. Rondon has benefited from Almiron’s arrival as he no longer needs to rely on crosses for goals. Likewise, Almiron has also benefited from playing with Rondon as the Venezuelan takes away a defender to free up space for the former MLS star to create chances.

Next. NUFC Player of the Month: February. dark

Yes, Rondon will be 30-years-old next season, but he still has plenty of football left in the tank. Several teams are eyeing up moves for Rondon, but Newcastle remains his top choice. Toon supporters can only hope that Ashley pays up to secure his services for the next few years.