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Aston Villa signing this struggling Newcastle star could turn out to be an inspired move

Why Aston Villa should go all out for Dwight Gayle in January

Six months ago, a report in the Express (h/t Birmingham Live) suggested that Aston Villa along with West Bromwich Albion and Fulham were interested in securing the services of Dwight Gayle.

The centre-forward’s heroics last season with West Bromwich on loan put them on course to get back to the Premier League. But it was eventually cut off after losing to Aston Villa in the Championship play-off semi-final.

Gayle has been less prolific in England’s top-flight. In three seasons with Crystal Palace, he has managed just 15 goals.

Dwight Gayle
Dwight Gayle

However, he was sent on a season-long loan to West Brom last summer. In 38 games for the Baggies, he scored 23 goals and assisted 8 times. He performed similarly in the Championship with ​Newcastle in the 2016-17 campaign, scoring 23 goals in 26 starts for the Magpies. 

It has to be noted that he has regained his goalscoring form and looked to be ready for the new season, but an injury in the pre-season halted his progression with Newcastle after returning from the loan spell.

The Englishman has just played 2 matches so far, coming on from the bench, and is yet to make any contribution for the team. Without his good form, there may not be chances for the Magpies to finish higher up the table.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa, who are also in relegation battle despite the bright performances of their skipper Jack Grealish, are yet to find the right solution to be more productive.

Dwight Gayle
Dwight Gayle

Aston Villa have struggled for goals this season and they need to be scoring plenty in order to avoid relegation. Dwight Gayle, who has not had many chances at Newcastle, can be a great addition to the squad and a back-up option for Dean Smith.

Villa must make a move for the experienced Englishman who is very dangerous inside the box. With his touch of goalscoring coming back last season, Gayle must be given a chance to showcase what he still has in him.

Dwight Gayle
Dwight Gayle

If he moves to Villa Park, Gayle must grab the chance to prove himself in the top-flight once again. Though he may not be the first-choice, given his age, he still has room for improvement, which can get him more playing time.

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Verdict

Aston Villa were willing to move for the striker earlier but faced competition from West Brom and Fulham. They must revive their interest in Gayle this January as it could turn out to be an inspired move if he shows goalscoring touch.