Window has been tough, Rafa admits
RAFA Benitez says Newcastle United have to face up to what has been a “difficult transfer window” so far at St James’ Park.
The former Real Madrid boss is calm going into the last month of the window and has admitted players must be sold if Newcastle are realistically going to recruit more new faces.
United have expressed an interest in Arsenal’s Lucas Perez but, as previously reported, the club have not tabled an offer yet despite making enquiries about his salary.
Arsene Wenger has admitted Perez (pictured below) is likely to leave the club soon but talks are already under way with Fenerbahce, who might be able to match his wage demands.
When asked about transfers after the win against Wolfsburg, Benitez said: “We are where we are. For us it has been a difficult transfer window.
“Hopefully, we can improve the team a little bit but we have to move players out and also look to bring players in.
“However, we are trying to find the balance.”
Benitez knows the fans are anxious for transfer news but after 250 supporters made their way out to Germany for a midweek game with an afternoon kick-off he offered his thanks to those who travelled.
The manager and his staff mingled with some fans before the game after they turned up at the Innside Hotel in Wolfsburg to greet the players.
Benitez said: “We met them before the game.
“The told me they were enjoying the weather and it was also good to see them around and supporting the team.
“They are quite vocal and it is a big positive.
“It was a good day for them and a good day for us and hopefully everybody linked with Newcastle.”