Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez has admitted he hopes to sign a goalkeeper this summer.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has told the Irish Examiner that he is looking to bring a new goalkeeper to St. James’ Park this summer.
The Magpies tied up their third signing of the summer on Wednesday, with Norwich winger Jacob Murphy following Florian Lejeune and former loanee Christian Atsu to Tyneside.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Whilst The Mirror note that a deal for Atletico Madrid full back Javi Manquillo is also on the verge of completion, more additions will be needed as Newcastle look to stay in the Premier League.
Benitez has been left frustrated with some of Newcastle’s work in the transfer market this summer, but he is already eyeing up more new signings after snapping up winger Murphy.
Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Benitez was asked about the future of goalkeeper Rob Elliot, and the Spaniard is pleased that Elliot is back to full fitness and ready to compete after a battle with injury.
However, Benitez did also add that he wants to bring in another goalkeeper, as he wants to strengthen the position to improve competition for places.
“The main thing for Rob is to be fit and he’s training hard after playing the final three games of last season,” said Benitez. “He is a good goalkeeper but I want him to compete. You can’t have players that think this is easy because they are the only one in that position. Hopefully we can bring in a new goalkeeper, and this competition will be good for the team,” he added.
Newcastle’s Rob Elliot celebrates
Newcastle have already loaned Matz Sels out to Anderlecht, whilst the Daily Mail report that Middlesbrough remain in talks over a deal to sign Karl Darlow, with Tim Krul also heading for the exit having been frozen out at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle could end the transfer window having allowed three goalkeepers to leave, and it seems that Benitez needs a big addition between the sticks, otherwise Elliot will start the season as Newcastle’s first-choice stopper.
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