Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez eyeing five more signings before the end of this summer’s transfer window including controversial Chelsea ace Kenedy
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NEWCASTLE boss Rafa Benitez is eyeing five more signings before the end of this summer's transfer window, including controversial Chelsea ace Kenedy.
The Spanish chief has been left frustrated by a lack of funds allocated to him by owner Mike Ashley this summer.
Despite a host of signings, including Christian Atsu, Jacob Murphy and Florian Lejeune, Benitez knows he needs more new blood in order to avoid a relegation battle.
However, Ashley recently claimed he "cannot and will not" dig into his own pockets to fund more moves this summer.
Yet a 2-0 opening day defeat to Tottenham may have sparked a change in tune, with Benitez hoping to conclude FIVE more deals before summer's end.
Controversial Chelsea ace Kenedy is one star on the former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss' radar as he continues to bolster his attacking ranks.
The Brazilian recently caused a stir in China as appeared to racially mock the nation - for which he and Chelsea were forced to apologise for.
Meanwhile, he is also looking to sign central defender Michal Pazdan in a £3million deal.
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Polish defender Pazdan, 29, is currently on the books of Legia Warsaw, with Benitez intrigued by potential in the Premier League.
Elsewhere, Benitez is hoping to bring in new faces to bolster his goalkeeper, left-back and centre-forward ranks - with Arsenal's Lucas Perez the preferred target up top.
The Toon boss also feels he is being forced into the market as he deals with a mini-injury crisis of sorts.
Newcastle saw Paul Dummett and Lejeune injured on the opening day, with the Welshman clutching his right hamstring as he was subbed-off in the seventh minute.
Meanwhile, Lejeune left St James' Park on crutches after a heavy tackle from Harry Kane.