Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez believes Salomon Rondon must continue with his scoring ways in order to enhance his chances of cementing a permanent transfer to the club. The Venezuela international joined the Magpies on a season-long loan from West Bromwich Albion last summer with Dwight Gayle heading into the opposite direction in a similar kind of deal.

Rondon initially struggled to adapt to the club’s style of play with no goals between August and October, but he has since picked up form with regular contributions and has provided nine goals and five assists to the team’s cause in the Premier League. Speaking to Sky Sports, Benitez admitted that he had known the qualities and he was confident that he would be a success with the team.

However, he added that Rondon must continue coming up with his scoring form for the remainder of the campaign in order to convince the hierarchy to spend for his services, he said: “We knew him before. We knew he could be fine for the way we wanted to play. I was pleased with him and I have been talking to him about what he is thinking. He is clear on wanting to score goals. I have talked with him about football, I asked him about what was going on. We had the same message, it is to carry on scoring goals. If he scores goals, it will be easier for him. It is better for him not to think about the future and just to score goals.”

At present, the Magpies are on 35 points for the season and they appear on course to beat the Premier League drop with another seven matches to play. Still, their prospects of signing Rondon could be dependent on West Brom. The Baggies are currently fourth in the Championship and their potential return to the top-flight may hamper the Magpies’ chances of landing the marksman.