Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is reportedly interested in signing Oliver Burke
It would have probably surprised some Newcastle fans when the Northern Echo reported this week that Oliver Burke is on Rafa Benitez’s radar as his West Brom career continues to stagnate.
Burke joined the Baggies for £15 million, but could now be on his way out of The Hawthorns and St James’ Park could perhaps prove to be his destination if Benitez decides to pursue a move and the two clubs can agree terms.
It is not a rumour that has captured the imagination of the Toon Army. Newcastle fans have been given little to smile about in the transfer window in recent years, and Burke’s time with West Brom hardly suggests that there is a change in direction.
But perhaps the timing of the speculation should actually leave Newcastle fans slightly more excited than they currently appear to be.
But by pursuing a deal for Burke, perhaps there is a chance that Benitez actually has one eye on the long-term picture at Newcastle – and that should encourage the Magpies fans.
The Scottish winger has enormous potential, but is going to do incredibly well to get his career anywhere near back on track by the end of the campaign.
If Benitez’s focus was solely on this season therefore, he would be forgiven for having absolutely no interest in Burke and focusing on targets who could make an immediate impact. He would be an expensive addition for a player that Newcastle fans are unlikely to see the best of this term if he did join.
But perhaps the surprise interest in the West Brom ace drops the slightest hint that Benitez is not ready to accept that his days at Newcastle are numbered just yet.
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