34-goal former Newcastle United striker made available for free transfer as Sheffield Wednesday eye move

Dwight Gayle is looking for a new club following his deadline day release from Stoke City.

Gayle joined Stoke on a free transfer from Newcastle United in the summer of 2022 but struggled to make an impact with three goals in 50 appearances. The 34-year-old failed to score in 13 outings so far this season.

The striker is now a free agent with clubs in the Championship and League One reportedly interested. Gayle joined Newcastle from Crystal Palace in 2016 and went on to make 122 appearances for the club, scoring 34 goals - the majority of which came during the 2016-17 promotion season from the Championship.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Sheffield Wednesday have already expressed an interest in the striker along with Championship rivals Ipswich Town and League One sides Barnsley, Derby County and Charlton Athletic.

A Stoke City club statement confirmed Gayle's departure from the club on deadline day confirming a mutual agreement to terminate the player's contract had been reached.

Stoke City technical director Ricky Martin said: “Dwight has been a true professional throughout his time with Stoke City and a positive influence around Clayton Wood.

“We thank him for his efforts during the past season and a half and wish him all the best for the future.”

While Gayle has struggled for goals in recent seasons, the striker has 147 competitive goals during his career following prolific seasons at the likes of Newcastle, West Bromwich Albion and Peterborough United in the Championship.