Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez prepared to walk away before Premier League begins after growing frustrated at transfer business
RAFA BENITEZ’S Toon frustrations have taken another twist over the payment structure for potential transfers.
Newcastle usually pay upfront fees for players but are now negotiating instalments as part of a new strategy at St James’ Park.
Spanish boss Benitez claims to be serious about his threat to walk out before the start of the season.
He fears they are in for a relegation battle unless they make serious changes to the squad.
Benitez was keen to get his transfer business done early but Toon have missed out on several targets, including Tammy Abraham.
Eibar defender Florian Lejeune is close to signing in a £8.7million deal - joining Christian Atsu.
But the Magpies clearly need to strengthen further despite winning the Championship to secure an immediate top-flight return.
Former St James' Park boss John Carver is urging fans to be patient and trust owner Mike Ashley to bring in more new faces.
He told the show: “I’ve got to urge the Newcastle fans to be patient
“Don’t panic. Don’t listen to the scaremongering about Rafa leaving and he’s going to quit because we haven’t signed anybody.
“I can guarantee you there’s a lot of work going on behind the scenes. Rafa will have his plan in place. He’ll have his targets: one, two and three. He’ll know what his priorities are.
“You look at the assets they’ve got there and they’ve got a lot of good Championship players, and there will be sides in the Championship knocking on Newcastle’s door to try and get them because they all want to get back into the Premier League.
“We have got momentum from last season. Just be patient, Newcastle fans. Don’t listen to the scaremongering. We are still on a crest of a wave and we don’t want anybody upsetting that.”