Rafa Benitez wants to bring in a new striker, central midfielder, winger and more defensive cover this summer according to the Chronicle’s latest piece on NUFC’s plans this summer.
The gaffer’s current contract expires next year and his relationship with Ashley is hardly healthy, so there’s some who refuse to believe anything related to what may happen this summer, however this is a sign that he’s still planning for the long-term at NUFC.
Securing our Premier League status and the small matter of a potential takeover (and Rafa’s future) will need to be addressed before summer spending, but these four positions do certainly seem like areas our squad needs investment in.
“Benitez wants to bring in a new striker, central midfielder, winger and more defensive cover this summer.
“With a significant amount of TV money due at the end of the season, supporters will also want to see the current regime show much more ambition than simply staving off relegation.”
Benitez wants to bring in a new striker, central midfielder, winger and more defensive cover this summer. https://t.co/881GsKjJZl #NUFC
— NUFC 360 (@NUFC360) March 18, 2018
A new striker is a must, with Joselu and Gayle only scoring 9 between them all season, whilst central midfield additions are needed with Henri Saivet and Jack Colback looking all set to be sold this summer.
Out wide we have options in Murphy, Atsu and Ritchie, however you can bet a permanent deal for Kenedy will be targeted if he continues to impress.
‘Defensive cover’ is the final area mentioned, with a lack of cover at left-back and right-back often being apparent whenever we’ve had issues with Yedlin or Dummett. I suspect Rafa may look to bring in competition for both this summer, as well as adding cover at centre-back if and when Chancel Mbemba is sold.
