It hasn't been a happy transfer window for Newcastle United fans and Rafa Benitez with Mike Ashley tightening his purse strings when it comes to acquiring new players.
Benitez has had to wheel and deal in order to add to his squad this summer with goalkeeper Martin Dubravka joining from Sparta Prague permanent for £4.5m. Chelsea prospect Kenedy is set for his second loan spell at the club, Swansea midfielder Ki came to Tyneside on a free transfer and £3m was enough to prise Switzerland’s Fabian Schar from Deportivo de La Coruña.
A £9.5m deal for Mainz forward Yoshinori Muto is also in the works, subject to a work permit being acquired.
But Benitez cut a concerned figure in the aftermath of his side's 4-0 friendly defeat to FC Braga, telling reporters that "when things are not going well off the pitch you can see a reflection on the pitch."
The former Liverpool boss was asked if there was money to spend and if his side were close to completing any new deals and his answer will do nothing to hearten Newcastle fans heading into the new season:
I have no idea. The fans have to be concerned, we are concerned. I’m really worried.
The 58-year-old was pressed on whether he was referring to the fact that the club is currently showing a profit on their summer business Benitez replied “Everything - I’m really worried.”
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.
Benitez is pushing for a deal for West Brom striker Salomon, with Dwight Gayle a potential makeweight, but with the Venezuelan's release clause set at £16.5 million, Mike Ashley is holding out on splashing the cash for a player who will be 29 in September.
The Spaniard has said he wants three or four more players before the window closes next week, adding that the club "will try to change things in the next 10 days."
