Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez is expected to sell midfielder Jonjo Shelvey if he remains in the dugout over summer with West Ham keen on snapping up his services, according to the Northern Echo.
The newspaper claim that while Benitez’s future is still in doubt, the Spaniard staying on at St James’ Park would see Shelvey, who is on £70,000-a-week (Source: Spotrac), shipped out from Tyneside after a fall from grace under the manager.
Currently the fifth choice in the middle of the park, there are said to be doubts over his work ethic, although that has reportedly not stopped West Ham’s Manuel Pellegrini from being a huge fan of his passing ability.
It is stated the Irons are potential suitors for the English maestro and see his qualities as working in tandem with Declan Rice.
Good move for Newcastle?
There is absolutely no point in keeping Shelvey on board if he is not going to be played and that hefty contract he is on could go a long way to bringing in some fresh blood for the Magpies.
Yes, his talents are clear as day but he is far too inconsistent for Benitez’s liking, not to mention a liability at times with his lack of desire when it comes to defending.
Losing him to a Premier League rival is risky business but at the same time Newcastle could charge a hefty premium for the Hammers, or anyone else in the league, to snap him up.
All in all, it could well prove to be a savvy bit of business for Benitez – who needs to sign on the dotted line himself if he is to make decisions like this.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Whether it is West Ham or somewhere else, Shelvey’s exit seems almost guaranteed.
He has lost his place in the side and there does not look like any coming back from where he currently stands in the St James’ Park pecking order.
A big money sale could see new arrivals on Tyneside so the fans will not be too disappointed either.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10