Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez told he must sell players before he can sign any new recruits
The Magpies have been linked to a slew of players but the Spaniard claimed last week he still does not know what his budget is for this window
RAFA BENITEZ is locked in a transfer stand-off with Newcastle having been told he must sell before he can buy.
The Toon boss is desperate to bring in new faces this month but has been ordered to trim his squad down first.
However, Benitez does not want to let any player leave until a new signing has come through the door.
And the stalemate has left Newcastle way off the pace with their transfer business in what is a crunch month for their hopes of staying in the Premier League.
Benitez claimed last week he still does not know what his budget is for this window.
It was the latest in a series of public comments directed towards Toon chiefs, who are growing frustrated with his regular remarks.
And tensions have been increased given Benitez is refusing to even sell misfits like Aleksandar Mitrovic - who has not started a league game this season - until replacements are secured.
One player the Spaniard definitely wants to keep is Jonjo Shelvey, who has attracted interest from West Ham.
The midfielder, 25, has been in and out of the Toon’s side this season and has been sent off twice.
But Benitez still sees Shelvey as a key player and will not sanction a sale – especially to one of Newcastle’s relegation rivals.