Rafa Benitez’s long search for a goalkeeper might come to an end very soon. The Newcastle United boss has been on the lookout for a new shot-stopper and it seems he is finally done with his work.
According to reports, Newcastle are interested in Barcelona keeper Jasper Cillessen. The Dutch keeper hasn’t really settled to life in Spain and has been the second choice in the pecking order since his arrival at the Spanish club in 2016.
Benitez had prioritised the signing of a new custodian in the summer transfer window but lack of intent from owner Mike Ashley restrained themselves from signing his preferred targets.
Karl Darlow was on the verge of leaving the St James Park as Benitez wanted to make enough room for a new keeper at the club but he remained on the books of the Magpies. Tim Krul left the club for Brighton & Hove Albion for an initial loan deal which was later made permanent.
Rob Elliot has done comparatively well but the Spanish gaffer wants more competition on the side and therefore a move for the Dutchman has become imperative.
Cillessen has grown frustrated over his limited appearances at the Camp Nou and is ready to bid goodbye to the Catalan giants in an attempt to revive his career. Barcelona are also willing to let him go so Benitez now has a real chance to grab the player.
His arrival in the Tyneside would be a boost for Benitez who is aiming to take control of the proceedings once the Premier League resumes following the international break.
A possible sale of the Newcastle United club might also happen as Mike Ashley is very keen to get rid of the club as soon as possible. He has already listed the club for sale and Amanda Staveley and his PCP Capital investment fund have signed a non-disclosure agreement to have a more clear vision of things happening at the St James Park recently.
Should Ashley manage to sell the club before the new year it could be a huge bonus for Benitez as the new owner is likely to inject fresh money in January which would be of massive help.
Newcastle scouts have been very active and Real Sociedad keeper Geronimo Rulli has also been shortlisted as an option. Cillessen is only 28 and it would be the perfect time for him to make a breakthrough in the Premier League.
