Newcastle United confirm Dwight Gayle exit as summer exodus continues

Dwight Gayle’s six-year spell at Newcastle United has come to an end after joining Stoke City on a two-year contract.

The Magpies signed Gayle ahead of the 2016/17 Championship season, where his 23 goals helped Rafa Benitez’s side gain immediate promotion back to the Premier League.

In total, Gayle made 122 appearances for United, scoring 34 times.

“I’m buzzing to be here and I can’t wait to get started now,” the 32-year-old told Stoke’s official website.

“There were a few parties that were interested but for me it was about finding a club that was right for me and after speaking to the gaffer and the coaches I heard everything I wanted to hear.”

Gayle becomes the fifth player to depart Newcastle this summer, joining Freddie Woodman, Isaac Hayden, Jeff Hendrick and Ciaran Clark in England’s second-tier.

What Eddie Howe said about Dwight Gayle

Speaking about Gayle’s imminent departure last week, head coach Eddie Howe said: “I’ve had a couple of conversations with Dwight.

“At the end of last season, we had a good conversation, and made him aware of the situation, for his own benefit, so he could take his career into its next phase.

“I was very honest with him. I said from day one, from my perspective, I had a great relationship with him, and I love working with him. He was brilliant for the team last year, and because of all those things, he deserved the utmost respect and honesty from me about the how the future lay for him, and I wanted to give him the best chance to find his next home.

“I really hope he goes on and has a great season next year, and I wish him nothing but success.”