The Telegraph claim Newcastle bosses are set to meet later this week to decide on the transfer budget they will allow Rafael Benitez in January, as they look to persuade the Spaniard to stay at St James’ beyond the current season.
Benitez has been reluctant to sign a new contract without assurances from the board of future spending, with the former Liverpool man eager to add to his squad at every opportunity.
This summer looked as if it might fail to bring any new arrivals, but the Magpies were able to secure the signings of Fabian Schär, Federico Fernandez, and Yoshinori Muto, alongside permanent deals for Martin Dubravka and Mikel Merino.
The loan arrival of Salamon Rondon saw Dwight Gayle head in the opposite direction to West Bromwich Albion, and the ‘Toon fans would likely have been left moderately pleased with the business conducted.
However, there needs to be more of a commitment to future success. If Benitez is given financial backing, the tactician could be remaining in the North-East for a long while yet.
