---
title: "Benitez casts big money Newcastle move into doubt, deal unlikely"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/benitez-casts-big-money-newcastle-move-into-doubt-deal-unlikely/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Michael Cox"
section: "Ticker"
published: "2016-08-04T19:50:03Z"
modified: "2016-08-04T19:50:03Z"
---

# Benitez casts big money Newcastle move into doubt, deal unlikely

**Newcastle United fans in the Transfer Tavern have watched their club spend over £30m in this summers transfer window and are praying that the new additions can pay off as the side chase instant promotion back the English top tier.**

The Newcastle boss, Rafa Benitez, plans more signings but The Argus reports today that the manager himself has said a deal for Brighton winger Anthony Knockaert could prove tough for the club to complete.

Benitez was questioned about his pursuit of Knockaert during a radio phone-in on BBC Radio Newcastle this evening, [saying](https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/14660296.Newcastle_boss_admits_it_will_be_tough_to_land_Knockaert/): “We know that will not be easy. We are rivals and I think it will be tough to convince them.

“Normally you try and, if you cannot, you have to move on and start thinking about other targets.

“We will see but I think it will be difficult.”

The Seagulls have recently rejected a Magpies bid for the player and it looks as though the Spaniard will set his sights elsewhere.

His form last season [reportedly](https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/14660296.Newcastle_boss_admits_it_will_be_tough_to_land_Knockaert/) impressed the former Chelsea and Liverpool coach enough to make a big money move, though the club’s standing as a direct rival has seen any deal for the ex-Leicester City man scuppered.

**Will Benitez return NUFC to the top flight? Let us know below…**