Unwanted Newcastle United striker a target for Sheffield United but Middlesbrough also keen

Sheffield United have been linked with interest in Newcastle United striker Dwight Gayle. The 32-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at St James' Park.

It is being claimed he may depart on loan this summer, but the Blades will face competition from former manager Chris Wilder. Middlesbrough were linked with him earlier in the week.

Wilder was keen on the former Crystal Palace striker when Sheffield United manager in the Premier League.

Manager Paul Heckingbottom has a vacancy for a striker following the release of David McGoldrick. That spot could go to Daniel Jebbison but if the Blades boss feels the 18-year-old will benefit from another loan spell, it will create the need for another front man to come in.

United are targeting Premier League loans as part of their recruitment drive. Gayle has found the net just five times for Newcastle in the last three seasons.

In total, he has made 122 appearances for the Magpies since joining in 2016, scoring 34 goals and chipping in with 11 assists.

However, he has proven pedigree at Championship level. He found the net 24 times during a loan spell at West Brom in 2018-19.

His goals helped the Baggies to the play-off final, where he opened the scoring before two late goals saw Aston Villa seal a 2-1 win.