Rafa Benitez reportedly wants Kevin Gameiro at Newcastle United and it’s just another indication that the Magpies manager’s reign will soon end.
The Northern Echo reported that the Atletico Madrid forward was on the shortlist of attacking transfer targets created by Benitez, despite the forward’s £25million asking price.
The report claimed that the Spanish manager was unaware of Mike Ashley’s budget, so included his expensive long-term target on his list.
While the Magpies boss’ ambition is right; he’s dreaming, if he thinks it’s possible to get a player such as Gameiro at the club.
It’s true if he doesn’t ask, then there’s no chance of him getting the 30-year-old, but he should know by now that as soon as Ashley sees the price; a deal is dead.
The 30-year-old forward is capable of scoring the goals needed to ensure the Magpies’ survival, however given his age and lack of resale value, Ashley is not going to throw £25million down the drain.
Even if the hefty outlay saw Newcastle United stay in the financially rewarding Premier League.
Now it’s unknown how long Ashley will be in charge of the club, as he is still trying to sell it after a recent takeover attempt failed.
However, that could take seasons for all anyone knows, as Ashley is not willing to sell the club cheap for his own sake.
Then there’s the possibility that a new owner, doesn’t bring bags full of money to spend on transfers; the next owner could be equally as scrupulous about splashing the cash in the transfer market.
So that means it’s a case of when not if, about Benitez leaving the Magpies.
The Spanish manager appears frustrated as it is, given the lack of investment in the club in the January window so far, and in the summer.
The experienced manager is having to work miracles to ensure his Championship level squad survive in the Premier League.
With his side currently one point clear of the drop; it shows that Benitez can’t save the club, even with his tactical genius.
After sacrificing his ability to manage in the top-flight and win promotion with the Magpies from the Championship last season; Benitez will not waste another season managing in the second-tier.
This means, he would walk away from the club if relegated, which is likely as it stands.
Benitez will still walk away if the club survives, if the club’s potential shortlist of transfer targets, continues to read like they’re raiding the bargain bin.
The manager is used to working with a certain level of talent, and after putting up working with scraps; he’s going to finally give up and go to a club who will sign the type of players he likes.
His no doubt understandable desire to end his Magpies reign, is not only showcased by his club’s lack of transfer ambition, but by The Times reporting he has delayed contract talks.
Therefore, with Benitez still dreaming of targets like Gaimero while delaying contract discussions; it shows that Newcastle United supporters have to stop being in denial and prepare to wave goodbye to their beloved boss.