Bruce asks Mike Ashley to give player new deal...but club have 3 major doubts - The Athletic

According to The Athletic, Steve Bruce has asked the club to extend Dwight Gayle’s contract beyond the current campaign - however it seems those in charge don't share his enthusiasm.

The report states that his injury history, wages 'in excess' of £50,000 and his age (31) are thought to be stumbling blocks when it comes to any potential new deal.

The striker is free to talk to other clubs and is set to leave the club for nothing in the summer as things stand.

Gayle came off the bench to score a crucial winner in last month’s 2-1 victory against West Brom - yet he's failed to earn himself a single start since.

Despite being arguably our best option up front after Wilson, hence Bruce's eagerness to keep him, The Athletic reckon Mike Ashley and Co. have now been receptive to the NUFC boss' latest request to keep him.

As a result, it's claimed Gayle could well leave the club for nothing at the end of the season. Fulham's alleged interest has been denied, however it's reported he's open to a move abroad.

Moving Gayle on will almost certainly see us enter the race to sign a new striker at the end of the campaign with neither Joelinton or Andy Carroll - whose contract is also due to expire - showing that they can hit a barn door with a banjo since joining the club.

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