United close in on loan deal for Kenedy
NEWCASTLE United are hoping to tie up a loan deal for Kenedy before they head to Ireland later this week.
Extensive discussions took place between the Magpies and the Blues yesterday, with the clubs trying to agree a loan fee for the player.
The Magpies are hoping to announce the arrival today, with Kenedy travelling to Tyneside last night for his medical.
Kenedy has also asked for clarification on his future from Chelsea.
Ideally, United want the deal done in good time for their pre-season fixture list.
Chelsea are due to travel to Australia for pre-season later this month and Kenedy wants to know where he stands – but he is open to the proposed move back to Tyneside.
The left-sided Brazilian is subject of a loan bid from the Magpies with the club trying to agree a facility fee while a future price for his services following his successful spell on Tyneside last summer has also been discussed.
There is an air of uncertainty at the home of the FA Cup holders.
Antonio Conte is back as boss but Maurizio Sarri’s links with the club haven’t gone away as discussions on a compensation fee continue with Napoli.
Chelsea have not made any summer signings yet, but Conte was happy to let Kenedy go out on loan last season and is believed to be prepared to do likewise this summer.
NEWCASTLE are expected to add two new goalkeeper coaches to their backroom team.
Long-serving goalie guru Chris Terpcou has joined Arsenal for the new season and United are looking to bring in two new coaches to work with the Under-23 team and the Academy.
Ben Dawson’s side are now back in pre-season training and faced their first friendly game of the summer at Barrow last night.
FEARS that Rafa Benitez could be approached by the Spanish FA have been allayed by the appointment of former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique.
The Newcastle United manager was on Spain’s shortlist for the job but Enrique was the only manager interviewed for the post.
Spain were knocked out of the World Cup at the last 16 stage of the competition and Fernando Hierro stepped down as caretaker boss.