Rafa Benitez makes big decision to cash in on fan favourite this summer - reports
Newcastle United's official media partner, the Daily Mirror, report that Aleksandar Mitrovic has failed to win over Rafa Benitez, with the Spaniard ready to cash in on the Serbian striker this summer.
With Newcastle preparing for life back in the Premier League, Rafa Benitez is planning for a busy summer of incomings and outgoings and it seems the popular striker will be one of many who will be moved on in the coming months.
The Mirror claim the club are open to selling the striker if they can recoup something close to the £14m he cost when he signed from Anderlecht two years ago.
Mitrovic scored 9 goals in his debut Premier League season in 2015/16, however endured a frustrating campaign last time out, scoring just 4 times in the Championship.
His passion and love for NUFC has never been in doubt, and his link up play and selfishness on the pitch has also earned praise, but his lack of composure in front of goal is a real cause for concern.
With Dwight Gayle ahead of him in the pecking order, Tammy Abraham likely to join on loan and another striker also expected to be recruited, Mitrovic may struggle for game time next season, meaning his exit could make sense for all parties.
Personally, i'd be inclined to loan him out next season to give him an opportunity to prove himself when playing week in week out, but with Benitez needing to sell to reduce the wage bill and increase his transfer kitty, you can see why he may be moved on for good.
