According to the Chronicle, Newcastle United are interested in Burnley striker Andre Gray if they are promoted to the Premier League this summer.

What's the word?

Though Dwight Gayle has had a stunning impact on Tyneside since moving to the club last summer, there's little doubting the fact the Magpies' strike force needs improving.

The report claims the club have been seeking references on Gray of late, with the forward banned by the FA earlier this season for comments on Twitter he made years ago, before his rise from non-league football.

With just over a year left on his current deal with the Clarets, he's not thought to have yet opened talks with those behind the scenes at Turf Moor and the Toon Army are reportedly definitely interested in him as an option.

Would he really improve Newcastle?

Yes. Though he's blown hot and cold this season, Gray boasts a pace and power that would both compliment Gayle, as well as provide another option in a 4-2-3-1 system for Rafa Benitez.

Aleksandar Mitrovic's future is currently up in the air, with the Serbian constantly missing out even in the Championship, while Daryl Murphy surely isn't a long-term option in the Premier League.

Gayle will be given a chance to show what he can do as a regular in the top flight, having struggled to impose himself at Crystal Palace in terms of a frequent starting berth. Still, going into a season potentially back amongst the elite with only him as the man main may not be a wise idea.

What impact would he have on the squad?

Well, surely his arrival would spell the end for Aleksandar Mitrovic at St. James' Park. Unlikely to operate as a third-choice, the Serbian international is too good a player for that squad role and will no doubt be the subject of interest in the summer.

Daryl Murphy may be a more realistic option to have a third-choice, if a somewhat uninspiring one, while Adam Armstrong could also be brought through into the first-team if required.