Newcastle United were linked with the Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney during this summer’s transfer window but the Magpies never quite managed to agree on a deal.
If reports are to be believed, Benitez tried to orchestrate a swap deal involving Cairney and Gayle on deadline day.
Newcastle have made some clever signings this summer but Benitez is likely to regret missing out on the Scotsman this season. The Magpies are crying out for a midfielder who can run the show from the midfield and they should have submitted a better offer for the player in time.