ITV have reported that Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has admitted that he will have to sell players before he can buy any during this transfer window.
The Magpies have already begun selling their stars this summer, with Mikel Merino having only been offloaded to Real Sociedad last week. Benitez’s comments though suggest that yet more outbound business will first have to be conducted before any incoming deals can be done.
Newcastle did well to manage a 10th place finish in the Premier League last season, but Benitez will know that improvements have to be made if his side are to again avoid a turbulent fight for survival next season. The boss will now be evaluating his squad and deciding which individuals should make for the exit at St James’ Park this summer.
During Newcastle’s Championship promotion campaign, defensive midfielder Isaac Hayden was a lynchpin in the middle of the park. Since the step up to the top flight though, the ex-Arsenal man has struggled to keep pace.
The midfield trio of Merino, Shelvey and Diame combined to see Hayden starved of starts. Even with Merino now gone, Benitez may feel the 23-year-old is best suited to second tier football and opt to sell on the player valued at £6.3 million by Transfermarkt.
One of the few incoming signings made by the Magpies so far this summer is that of goalkeeper Martin Dubrawka, who originally arrived on Tyneside on loan last January.
Dubrawka’s permanent arrival, and the presence of veteran shot stopper Rob Elliot, Karl Darlow, and youngster Freddie Woodman in the squad leave little room for Matz Sels.
The 26-year-old spent last season on loan with RSC Anderlecht, and may now feel a permanent move to a side where he stands a better chance of being the no. 1 is on order.
Transfermarkt value Sels at £4 million, which could be easy money for the club in return for a player they have no room for.
Mitrovic is a talented striker, and Benitez ought to be in the market for one of those himself. The 23-year-old’s time at St James’ Park hasn’t really worked out though, and he appeared much more settled during his spell at Craven Cottage.
His sale may well be the best course of action for all involved. Given that Transfermarkt rate Mitrovic at £13.5 million which also suggests that his departure should raise enough funds to secure an adequate replacement.
