Newcastle United have secured a loan deal for versatile Chelsea flyer Kenedy who is set to arrive at St. James’ Park at the beginning of the January window, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper report that the Magpies have agreed to pay a loan fee for the 21-year-old Brazilian, who will complete the move as long as the Blues do not suffer any injuries before the beginning of the window.
The Mail claim that Rafa Benitez tried to sign in Kenedy, who can play as an attacking left-winger or drop back to defence, over the summer, but the move was blocked after Antonio Conte wanted to retain the player as cover.
It is said that Chelsea are now willing to let the youngster go on loan for the rest of the season, with his game time limited to just three EFL Cup appearances so far this term.
Good move for Newcastle United?
It looks like Benitez will be mostly restricted to loan deals in the January window, and taking that into consideration, this is about as good as it will get for the Magpies.
Benitez’s aim now is to secure the deals he needs to survive, and then he can focus on the long-term after a takeover is hopefully completed by the summer.
Kenedy is a talented young player who is yet to get a real go in the Premier League, despite showing his quality on many occasions for the Blues.
The left-side of defence has been a big problem for Newcastle ever since Paul Dummett’s opening day injury, and Kenedy will help provide cover there, while also offering a dangerous option on the left wing.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
This one looks all but done.
It seems as though Conte has accepted a loan deal would be best for his player, and Newcastle represent a brilliant option for game time.
Benitez is known to be a long-term admirer of the Brazilian, and a deal should be confirmed in the coming weeks.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10