Newcastle United are ready to seal a deal for Chelsea winger Kenedy with Rafael Benitez’s future the only hurdle left to overcome before a move is completed, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
The reporter, who writes for the Sun, claims on his personal Twitter account that the Magpies have got a move for the Blues’ dazzling speedster lined up, after impressing on loan last season, but that owner Mike Ashley is unwilling to splash any cash until the Spanish boss has put pen to paper on a new contract.
Benitez’s current deal runs out next summer, leaving his long-term future up in the air, and without his signature, it is stated Ashley will not be providing funds to bring in new recruits.
Good move for Newcastle?
Having Kenedy lined up is a move which will have the fans delighted, for he would likely have been many of the Toon Army’s top target after his brilliant displays at St James’ Park last season.
He is the sort of player who gets supporters out of their seats and lifts not only spirits around the stadium but on the pitch, with his team mates knowing that he can produce a bit of brilliance to change a game.
It would be a marker of real intent were the Magpies to get this one done.
This is Futbol rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
It seems as though everything is in place for the trigger to be pulled and the Brazilian to be back in the black and white stripes – but nothing is ever simple at Newcastle.
Will Benitez hold off in contract talks too long? Will Ashley be able to convince the Spaniard to remain at St James’ Park?
It is a nervy time on Tyneside.