Steve Bruce reveals the only way Dwight Gayle will leave Newcastle United in January's transfer window

Gayle – who missed the start of the season through injury – has been on the fringes under Steve Bruce in recent weeks.

And the striker was an unused substitute for last night’s 2-0 win over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

Gayle – who scored 24 goals for loan club West Bromwich Albion last season – is interesting a number of Championship sides, including Nottingham Forest and Leeds United, ahead of the January transfer window, and it has been claimed that Newcastle would consider offers above £15million for Gayle, who is out of contract in the summer of 2021.

The 29-year-old’s wages, however, will put off many second-tier clubs.

“I don't want him to go anywhere,” said Bruce, United’s head coach.

“Look, I've always liked him. I tried to buy him three times. I think he’s a natural goalscorer, which is something every club would have.

“He's by far the best Championship striker there's been for the last five, eight years.

“I saw what he did last season at West Brom, because he was in the Midlands. Right foot, left foot. How many did he score?

“I don't want him to go anywhere, and it would have to be a ridiculous offer and amount of money. Let's be fair, everyone's got their price, but I don't want Dwight to go anywhere, that's for sure.”

Gayle – who has only played 45 minutes of Premier League football so far this season – has been knocking on Bruce’s door asked to get more time on the pitch.

Asked if Gayle, signed from Crystal Palace in the summer of 2016, had been to see him in his office at the training ground, Bruce said: “Constantly. Since the day I walked through the door. Non-stop.

“But we have a great relationship. I hope that expands to the way he feels about me. I've been delighted since he's been on the training ground, and been fit, because it wasn't easy for him to start with. He had a horrible injury.”