‘Every season is the same’ - Newcastle fans fuming at standoff behind the scenes

The Newcastle fans in the Transfer Tavern have been fuming over a story in The Shields Gazette that claims Rafa Benitez is in the middle of a stand-off with the club’s hierarchy over a new contract. The issues over the new deal come as Benitez wants assurances over a funding plan, as he’s previously been stung in the transfer window by Mike Ashley’s unwillingness to splash the cash.

Transfer and contract talks are deadlocked at Newcastle. #nufc https://t.co/3IqUG7EYx3

— Miles Starforth (@milesstarforth) June 4, 2018

Rafa Benitez achieved what was thought to be impossible last season, reaching a top half finish with the Magpies, despite being on a very limited budget. In the January window, the Spaniard was only able to bring in three players, all on-loan, although it was enough as the club marched onto a four-game winning streak that saw them shoot up the table from relegation contenders to plain sailing in 10th.

Next season looks to be more of a challenge for the Geordies though, the fans aren’t hopeful over their summer window with Mike Ashley still enforcing his stranglehold over the club’s finances. If Benitez had a transfer budget and was able to spend it as he saw fit, it would only be a matter of time until the club achieved what they’ve all been wishing for and got back into European football. However, if things continue as they are, it’s unlikely Benitez will be in charge for much longer.

You can read our local Magpies verdict on the Benitez contract rumours here:

surely not miles.lee ryder told us we had a healthy budget of 50 million plus sales.lee ryder is never wrong #nufc

— Black cloud (@Blackcloud1603) June 4, 2018