NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JULY 26: Dwight Gayle of Newcastle United gets away from Neco Williams of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool FC at St. James Park on July 26, 2020 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Football Stadiums around Europe remain empty due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in all fixtures being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
According to Daily Mail, Fulham are keen to revisit their interest in Dwight Gayle of Newcastle. Fulham have been long-term admirers of the forward and are working on an incentive-based deal with Newcastle. Clubs in the middle east are also said to be interested in the forward.
Fulham’s transfer activity in the summer window was focused largely on improving the defence and midfield, with Ademola Lookman being the only new attacker to come through the door on loan from RB Leipzig.
The Cottagers didn’t really look too keen to add to their striking ranks, which is pretty understandable given the presence of a lethal weapon like Aleksandar Mitrovic in front of goal.
The Serb has already hit the ground running in the Premier League this season but the lack of quality depth beyond him could well come back to haunt Scott Parker’ side later in the campaign. Mitrovic also has a habit of tailing off in patches, meaning Fulham need a reliable alternative up top to reduce the dependence on their talismanic hitman.
Aboubakar Kamara and Bobby Reid, though not specialist No.9s by trade, are somewhat capable of slotting into Mitrovic’s shoes. But neither player has a good record in the Premier League. Suffice to say, the Cottagers ideally need another striker to compete for places in the ranks.
The 31-year-old has gathered plenty of experience in the Premier League with well over 100 appearances, which would come in handy for Fulham if they survive the drop. And in case they end up getting relegated, Gayle’s track record in the second-division would make him an asset for the club.
Gayle is an experienced professional who has proven himself in the top-flight as well as Championship. Given that they have struggled for goals this term, adding him to their forward line, irrespective of their Premier League status, would be a smart move.