According to the Chronicle, Rafa Benitez has been assured that he will be backed in January whether a takeover occurs or not – with the Spaniard expecting ‘ at least’ two or three new arrivals.
I still have my reservations given there is no details of budget or just how much backing Benitez will receive from Ashley, however it is promising to hear January plans may not be disrupted quite as much as some feared by rumours of a potential takeover.
Here’s a snippet from the Chronicle’s latest piece:
“Rafa Benitez will be backed in the January transfer window – regardless of whether the club is sold either side of the new year.
“It is understood that Benitez has had assurances on bringing new faces in next month.
The Magpies are already in pursuit of MLS star Miguel Almiron, but Benitez is likely to get at least two or three new faces in the winter trading period.”
The report does state that Rafa doesn’t know what his exact budget is, which is slightly worrying and we don’t know how heavily he will be backed. We can only go off the fact he has been given reassurances and that in itself is a positive.
We have heard similar things from Ashley before though, and he has not stood by his word. I find it hard to believe that Ashley would want to spend big if a sale of the club was imminent. It just wouldn’t make sense financially for him as he is essentially funding for the next ownership.
The reports also states that Rafa’s top targets will be pursued, but time will tell on that front – with it clear that Rafa wants a record deal to be done to finally get Miguel Almiron ‘over the line’.
So what exactly does “at least 2 or 3” mean?
Typical Chronicle BS on a par with Ashley’s asking price of “at least 300 million”
2 isn’t at least 3 so how does this figure actually work?
Brrrian(Quote)
Almiron is looking a done deal, Samaris supposedly wants to come (final year of contract and at €10m as quoted to activate a clause good business at 29) would be a an excellent addition surely that’s spending under £35m on two major upgrades to the team that’s desperately needed and even a loan for a decent ‘Left footed left back’ which is Benitez other wish, wouldn’t be far off the net amount Ashley has offered ‘Debenhams’ today to save them…. #justathoughtmikeashley
sean spokes(Quote)
Ok right how much has he been given? Knowing Ashley it will be up to £10mil on all 3. So don’t get too excited people!
Brian Hall(Quote)