Newcastle United are reportedly set to tell manager Rafael Benitez that he’s under no pressure to sell in January.
According to the Northern Echo, Newcastle United will tell manager Rafael Benitez that he doesn’t have to sell any key players during the January transfer window.
The Magpies beat Preston North End 2-1 at Deepdale on Saturday to stay top of the Championship table, with six league wins in a row to their name.
Aston Villa’s Jonathan Kodjia in action with Newcastle’s Jamaal Lascelles
Currently three points clear at the top of the table, Newcastle are the hot favourites to win the league and make an immediate return to the Premier League, with just three defeats so far this term.
However, their superb performances under Benitez this season mean that some players are attracting interest from other clubs, and defender Jamaal Lascelles is one such player.
The former Nottingham Forest centre back, 22, is currently Newcastle’s club captain, and has not only starred this season, but was one of the few shining lights in black and white stripes towards the end of last season too.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Seen as a potential England international, Lascelles is one of the top young defenders in the Football League, and The Sun reported over the weekend that Chelsea – who have made a number of scouting trips to St. James’ Park this season – are interested in signing Lascelles.
It was claimed that the Blues could offer around £18m for Lascelles as they chase a young defender to eventually step in for Gary Cahill or John Terry, but Newcastle will seemingly stand firm.
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley in the stands
The Northern Echo report that manager Benitez will be told that he is under no pressure to sell any of his key players in the January transfer window, as they will continue to push for the Premier League.
Owner Mike Ashley is believed to be happy with the club’s financial situation, meaning that Benitez and Newcastle don’t have to sell Lascelles even if Chelsea do come calling in 2017 – which will be music to the ears of Magpies fans who have really taken to the young defender this year.
Would you accept £18m for Lascelles?
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