Rondon Reunites With Rafa Benitez At Dalian Yifang

By Max Wise

Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang have completed the signing of Salomon Rondon from West Bromwich Albion for an undisclosed fee.

Rondon moves to Asia after four years in England, where he played for the Baggies and also starred for Newcastle United on loan last season.

The 29-year-old Venezuela international’s move has seen him reunited with Rafael Benitez, who secured him on a temporary basis for Newcastle United last season, scoring 11 goals in 33 Premier League appearances.

Benitez left his role as Newcastle United manager at the end of June following the expiration of his contract while Rondon returned to parent club West Brom, but the pair will now work together again following their swift reunion.

A West Brom statement read: “Salomon Rondon has today joined Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang for an undisclosed fee.

“The Venezuela international will be teaming up with Rafa Benitez, who led Newcastle United during his loan spell at St James’ Park last season.

“Rondon arrived at The Hawthorns in the summer of 2015 and made 120 appearances for the Baggies, scoring 28 goals.

“The Club wishes Salomon and his family all the very best in the future.”

Rondon has previously played in Spain with Malaga and will join the likes of Yannick Carrasco, Marek Hamsik and Ghana international Emmanuel Boateng, who scored a famous hat-trick against Barcelona in the Spanish La Liga last year.

After sealing his move to China, Rondon said: "Today is the end of an incredible spell for me in the Premier League. During these past four seasons, I've seen my dreams come true.

"Being Newcastle's No 9 is certainly an honour that'll always stay with me. I also feel very grateful to WBA for the affection from every single Baggie right from day one and for the opportunity the club gave me.

"I'm beginning a challenge that really motivates me and I'm really excited as I become a Dalian Yifang player."