Newcastle to miss out on Rondon permanent signing?

Newcastle United could be dealt a bitter blow in their pursuit of striker Salomon Rondon, after it had been reported club owner Mike Ashley refused to bankroll a move for the West Brom striker. Rondon has been in excellent form so far this season, helping Newcastle United all but guarantee Premier League survival.

Despite Rondon having contributed 9 goals to the Toon Army's campaign this season, it appears the club are not ready to sign the striker on a permanent basis.

The Venezuelan forward, who is available for a fee of around £20 million, is also being monitored by French side Marseille as well as Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam.

The player can make a move for £16.5 million but only if West Brom are not promoted to the top flight. The 29-year-old has two years remaining on his WBA contract.

According to multiple reports, Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez wants to sign Rondon on a permanent basis, but is limited with his transfer funds that he can spend as soon as the transfer window reopens in the summer.