Rafa Benitez’s future at Newcastle United will be determined by the club’s transfer activity in the next four days, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claim that Benitez is waiting to see if managing director Lee Charnley is able to secure a deal for Feyenoord striker Nicolai Jorgensen, with the Spaniard also wanting a new goalkeeper.
The Mail report that Benitez, who has one year remaining on his contract after this season, is likely to leave the club early if no new signings are made in the coming days, and if a takeover does not materialise in the next few months.
It is said that Benitez was encouraged by owner Mike Ashley promising him funds this month, but talks of a contract extension have been stalled until the club’s transfer business is concluded.
As quoted by the Mail, Benitez said: “I told Mike what I thought about that (the contract extension). He knows my opinion and we don’t have to talk now. I don’t have any problem with my future. I’m really pleased to be here and I love the city, the fans, the potential, everything.
“I can give my opinion in terms of football operations. But everything is subject to the financial position of the club. I give names, have some information, feedback from Lee Charnley and then give my opinion. The main thing is that we have to be on the same page, that’s pretty simple.”
OPINION
The Mail’s claims seem to be slightly premature, with Benitez insisting he is happy at Newcastle. However, if the club do not secure anymore incomings in the next few days, then no one could blame Benitez for leaving the club. He has been constantly let down by the club’s hierarchy in the transfer markets, and if they fail to avoid relegation this year, then he will not be to blame. Signs are however looking positive for more signings, but the Jorgensen deal must be completed quickly with time running out.