OPINION
There is no doubting that Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has an iron grip on the purse strings at St James’ Park and it would have been immensely difficult for him to splash the cash on Miguel Almiron this January.
The Paraguayan was the club’s only big money arrival over the winter window, Antonio Barreca also arriving on loan, but reports during the month suggested that the Toon Army might have seen a couple more arrivals through the door if Rafael Benitez had his way.
The Chronicle claimed that Greek international and Benfica midfielder Andreas Samaris was set to join the club on loan until the end of the season – a move which obviously did not come off.
Thankfully for Benitez he has had the impressive talents of Sean Longstaff to fill the void in the centre of the park but despite his and Isaac Hayden’s form, having a 33-cap 29-year-old on the books brings and experience that could have been crucial in the club’s battle against relegation.
However, the pursuit of Samaris does not have to stop here – especially when it appears he will be up for a bargain price of absolutely nothing come the summer.
Portuguese publication Record claim that Benfica will not renew his contract before it comes to an end this summer, leaving the midfielder as a free agent – a price tag that even Mike Ashley will love.
Obviously on the Magpies’ radar already, sealing him for nothing brings exactly what Benitez wants for a fee which does little to his already limited – if not non-existent – transfer budget.
It is a pretty obvious decision – even if he plays only a handful of games, he will prove value for money at St James’ Park.