Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez will be hoping for a sizeable transfer budget when the transfer window opens in January. The Spaniard saw a number of his transfer targets got hijacked in the summer and he would be hoping for a much better time in the transfer window, this time around.
Four wins and two draws will be seen as a good achievement for a side who had to settle for a very limited budget and despite their struggle in the transfer market, Benitez has managed to stabilize things at St James Park, as the Magpies are currently standing in the ninth position in the Premier League.
However, like every other club, Rafa wants to improve on his options and is sure to sign a few players come the turn of the year. If reports are to be believed, the Toon are interested in Galatasaray left winger Garry Rodrigues.
Benitez had a bid rejected for the left back in the summer but he hasn’t given up and is confident of reaching a deal in January. Christian Atsu has shown signs of encouragement this season but the Spanish gaffer wants more flair and thus has identified the player as a potential target
So Benitez’s interest in the player makes sense and the gaffer wants to go all out for him, this time around. Dummett is blessed with very acute defensive abilities but he lacks the pace and athleticism of the modern day fullbacks and Rodrigues will enhance their quality.
The Tyneside club is right now tangled in the midst of an awkward situation as takeover talks have gained pace in the last few days. Mike Ashley wants to get rid of the club as soon as possible and Amanda Staveley has emerged as a potential owner of the Magpies.
Benitez would be hoping to strike a deal soon, as he could get a large transfer kitty if the club ends up being sold. The new owner seems to be delighted by the club’s performance and is likely to sanction enough funds for the manager’s liking. Benitez wants to avoid a situation similar the one in the summer and would be hoping for a better winter transfer window.
Rodrigues has started eight games this season and the player has already made his mark by racking up a goal and three assists under his belt. Newcastle haven’t scored many goals and their attacking traits has often been questioned. If the 26-year-old does arrive at the club Benitez’s concern is likely to be reduced to some extent.
But is he the right man for them?
