Three things Gayle’s new contract could mean for Newcastle United

Newcastle United are a team in shambles on the pitch, and they have a scattered agenda in the front office at St. James’ Park. Many fans were hoping to hear the news of Steve Bruce’s departure over the international break, but Mike Ashley is sticking with his man… for now.

Some news did come out of the Newcastle United camp this week, but it was not what anyone expected. According to multiple reports, striker Dwight Gayle has agreed to a new three-year deal that will see him stay on Tyneside until he turns 34.

This is a bit odd for a few reasons. Firstly, Gayle has fallen down the pecking order this season and has only been used as a late substitute, often times when it is far too late to have any impact on the game. Secondly, his age goes against the club’s player age policy.

That is one reason why Ashley did not fight hard to secure the permanent services of Solomon Rondon in 2019, who was then 29, despite his memorable season leading the front line. So, what does Gayle’s new contract mean for Newcastle United?

Dwight Gayle is set to stay at Newcastle United a few more years, but why?

Unfortunately, the first thing that came to mind when hearing this news is that those calling the shots at Newcastle United are preparing for the Championship. Gayle is known as an average striker in the Premier League, but he transforms into Karim Benzema when playing in the Championship.

Gayle scored 23 goals for the Toon in the second division a few years ago, and he enjoyed the same tally as a loanee at West Brom in 2018. If Newcastle United go down this season they at least know Gayle can score in double figures next term.

From a different angle, why would Gayle be offered a new contract if Newcastle United manage to stay up this season? In my eyes it serves as a major hint that there will not be much money to spend on new players next season.

In other words, Ashley is trying to keep as many players as he can in order to maintain depth across the pitch without having to spend (£) millions.

The third reason I can think of for Gayle’s contract extension is that he might have been told Bruce will be gone at some point this season, or in the summer. There is no report of that, that is simply me trying to think outside the box, but seeing where Newcastle United are in the table it is certainly possible.