COMMENT
Surviving in the Premier League would be enough for a team that recently earned promotion to the top tier of English football.
That is a scenario Newcastle could find themselves in next season, but in truth for a club of that size and stature, just surviving is not enough.
Rafa Benitez has achieved a lot during his managerial career and there is no doubt that the former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss understands how to deal with high expectations.
He will face that once again at St James’ Park next season, but in order for the Spaniard to succeed he needs the backing of club owner Mike Ashley.
In order for the Magpies to push on and go to that next level, Benitez and Co. need to make the big-money signings during the summer transfer window.
One player they can target is Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke, who is a proven performer in the Premier League.
The Belgium international moved to Selhurst Park from Liverpool last summer for a fee of £27million and struck 15 league goals for a Palace team that narrowly avoided relegation.
During his time in English football, Benteke has scored 66 league goals in 154 matches, a very healthy record for a player that goes unnoticed compared to his rivals.
Benteke’s ability to play up top on his own would suit Benitez’ style, but he also has the capabilities of playing with quicker players around him.
Not only that, he possesses great aerial strength and he would link up well with midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, who would be able to provide him with the quality service because of his ability to play any type of pass.
After years of underperforming, Newcastle needs to push on and a player like Benteke would help them go to that next level.