Newcastle United failed to bring Alassane Plea to St. James’ Park.
Newcastle were heavily linked with Plea throughout the summer, after it became clear that Nice were open to selling the forward.
However, the Magpies failed to get a deal over the line, with Borrusia Monchengladbach signing the French forward in the end for a fee of £22 million (Chronicle).
And Benitez admitted today: “He was one of the names on the list.”
Newcastle are still searching for a new forward, despite missing out on Plea.
The 24-year-old had scored prolifically in France last year, but the Magpies now need to draw up a contingency plan after missing out on his signature.
Newcastle are understood to be keen on West Bromwich Albion’s Salomon Rondon, with the clubs in negotiations.
Newcastle have made just three signings so far this summer, with Kenedy, Ki Sung-Yeung and Martin Dubravka all joining up permanently.
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