During a piece that looking at how Benitez’s NUFC could look next season if the Spaniard got his way, the Chronicle’s Mark Douglas has revealed that a ‘dream target’ of his is David Luiz – the Chelsea defender he made an unsuccessful attempt to sign in January.
The Brazilian has suffered with injuries and fallen out of favour at Stamford Bridge this season, however the Chronicle reveal here that Rafa actually ‘spoke about’ the possibility of signing him prior to the January window.
Obviously, nothing ever came of it, but it’s been said before that Benitez is a big admirer of his, with Luiz even admitting that Rafa is a ‘great friend’ and a ‘special coach’ in a recent interview on Kenedy’s stint at St James’ Park.
Here’s what NUFC editor Mark Douglas had to say during his insightful look into Rafa’s plans to improve his defensive options this summer:
“United want to continue to progress here and are looking to add a centre-back and right-back. Look to the relegated clubs for potential value with Craig Dawson of West Brom and Swansea City’s Alfie Mawson both potential additions if Benitez is provided with a transfer budget. A dream target would be David Luiz, who Benitez spoke about before January – but knew a deal was fantasy stuff.”
As the final line states, it seems like fantasy stuff for Rafa in a world where Ashley refuses to loosen his purse strings or sign any experienced players over the age of 27, however he’s clearly one Benitez would love to bring to Tyneside.