Everton are interested in signing Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles.
Everton want to sign another centre-back this summer, as Marco Silva look to bolster his side’s defence.
However, Benitez is understood to be keen to keep hold of Lascelles this summer.
And when asked whether Newcastle could sell the defender, Benitez said: “For sure, we want Jamaal.
“He’s a key player for us. He was a key player last year and he can be a key player for Newcastle United in a long, long time in the future.”
Benitez is known to be a massive fan on Lascelles, after making him captain last season.
Lascelles led Newcastle’s defence by example, and appeared to be on the verge of the England squad by the end of last campaign.
Everton are keen to bring in a new centre-back, as their defence was poor last term.
The Toffees had the likes of Michael Keane, Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka to pick from, but none of the trio impressed, and Lascelles would surely be an upgrade on any of them.
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