Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez eyes up move for free agent Jesus Navas after winger’s release from Manchester City
Sponsored by
JESUS NAVAS has emerged as a top target for Newcastle following his release from Manchester City, according to reports in Spain.
The 31-year-old could be set to stay in the Premier League with the Magpies, despite interest from his former club Sevilla.
According to Spanish news outlet , Rafa Bentitez is willing to match the 2010 World Cup winners demand of £1.3million-a-year.
The report also states that last seasons Sky Bet Championship victors have already entered negotiations with Navas to bring him to St James' Park.
His old club would love to bring him back to La Liga, but his financial demands are proving to be a stumbling block for the five-time Europa League champions.
Benitez is determined to add some much-needed Premier League experience ahead of the upcoming campaign in their first season back in the top-flight since suffering relegation in 2016.
He is eyeing up a player who was part of a hugely successful squad during his four years at the Etihad Stadium.
In his first campaign in England, he clinched a historic double for the Citizens - winning the league title as well as the League Cup, in which he scored an injury-time winner as City beat Sunderland 3-1 - then winning the same cup again two years later.
MOST READ IN SPORT
Despite not being offered a new contract, Navas remained a key player for the side in Pep Guardiola's first year in charge.
He featured in 36 games in all competitions - his lowest total for City since he joined in 2013 for £14.9million.
If Newcastle manage to acquire his services, fans will have to get used to the Spanish international's goal tally remaining close to the zero mark.
The Euro 2012 winner hasn't netted in the league for the past three seasons.
In 183 matches for Manchester City, he only managed to find the back of the net on eight occasions, while he has only scored three times in 35 games for the national side.