Bad news for Benitez as long-term target rules himself out of a move to NUFC

Galatasaray winger and long-term target Garry Rodrigues has effectively ruled himself out of a move to NUFC – stating he does not want to leave and will NOT accept an offer from a team who aren’t playing in the Champions League.

Despite Newcastle scouts having watched him on several occasions over the past year, it looks like our attempts to sign the 27-year-old will all be in vein if these latest comments are anything to go by.

Since the turn of the year the winger has probably been linked with a move to Tyneside more than any other player out there – with a new story coming from Turkey most days regarding our alleged interest – however it looks like Rafa will have to look elsewhere.

As reported by Turkish Football here’s his emphatic response to recent rumours linking him with a move away from Galatasaray:

“I do not want to leave, I am focused on the Champions League.

“I am at a championship winning side and think want to compete in the Champions League under the management of Fatih Terim.”

“I will not accept the offers of teams that are not in the Champions League.”

Galatasaray won the Turkish Super Lig title last season and are back in the Champions League as a result – hence why he’s adamant that he won’t leave for a side not playing in Europe (e.g Newcastle).

He may yet leave, but these comments all but confirm that we won’t be signing him this summer.

I can’t say I’d be too fussed if this was the case. He’s just enjoyed an impressive season – bagging 10 goals and 11 assists – but he turns 28 later this year and would demand a big fee for a player who’s yet to prove his worth in any of Europe’s top leagues.

If we’re going to be spending £17m plus this summer, I for one would rather see that money spent on Kenedy and/or a proven striker.

(Fancy writing for us? Send any articles/ideas over to us at [email protected] & we’ll get back to you!)

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

One thought on “Bad news for Benitez as long-term target rules himself out of a move to NUFC

  1. He is NOT better than what we have already got. He may provide competition, but he would be too expensive for that to be his main role. And, he comes with attitude issues and baggage that would undermine the dressing room and fan support.
    We shouldn’t be entertaining any notion of going for this guy – he just isn’t worth it!
    And, he doesn’t even want to come to NUFC…

      (Quote)

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