Rafa Benitez: The Spaniard has warned Newcastle they could 'suffer'

Newcastle United transfer news: Rafa Benitez critical over summer activity

Football

Thu August 02, 2018 · 7y ago

Rafa Benitez has admitted his concern and frustration over Newcastle's summer transfer activity and says he has "no idea" about what deals might happen.

Newcastle were thrashed 4-0 by Portuguese side Braga in their penultimate pre-season friendly on Wednesday.

Dwight Gayle was included in the visitors' starting line-up as his proposed transfer to West Brom stalls - which would see Salomon Rondon move in the opposite direction - but there was precious little else for the travelling fans to cheer about.

Benitez was 10/1 with Sky Bet to be the next Premier League manager to leave his post, but his worrying comments saw him move in to 5/1 joint-second favourite after his worrying comments.

"It was a bad game for us, we're not doing well on the pitch or off it," said a terse Benitez after the game.

"It's concerning with the season 10 days away. That should be a wake-up call for everyone (at the club). If we don't improve everything we will suffer.

"The only positive was the attitude of the young players."

Salomon Rondon in pre-season action for West Brom

Salomon Rondon is expected to join Rafa Benitez at Newcastle

Their lack of activity sees them priced at 11/2 with Sky Bet for relegation from the Premier League in 2018/19.

As for the chances of the club bringing in any new players before the summer window closes on August 9, the Spaniard was downcast.

"I said what I had to say on transfers two months ago, we'll see what the next 10 days bring," said Benitez.

"I have no idea. I have no idea how close we are to anyone," he added when pushed on whether Newcastle would be signing anyone in the next week.

"Now is not a time to talk about [Salomon] Rondon or Gayle, it's a time to analyse what's gone on these last two months.

"I said two months ago what we needed, and 10 days before the start of season we have four or five players we thought we could bring but we haven't - and we still are where we are."