Newcastle Send Scouts to Assess Sampdoria Midfielder Dennis Praet Ahead of Transfer Window Closure

Premier League side Newcastle United are eyeing up a possible move for Sampdoria midfielder Dennis Praet.

Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez has reportedly been told to offload players this summer before making any further signings, but according to Sky Sports, the Spaniard has sent scouts to Italy to assess the performance of Praet during the game against Benevento.

Praet joined Sampdoria last season following five years with Anderlecht where he won three league titles. Since his arrival at Sampdoria, the 23-year-old has made 34 appearances and scored one goal. He was impressive during the 2-1 victory over Benevento.

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Despite acquiring Joselu from Stoke City earlier in the month, Benitez is still frustrated over the lack of signings for the club, but pressure from the owners to sell players is making it difficult for Benitez to bring in new talent. 

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Benitez claims that it's not what he expected from the Premier League after back-to-back defeats at the hands of Tottenham and Huddersfield. He expressed his pride in the team as they gained promotion to the Premier League and insists the whole squad were excited to be back in the English top-flight.

Benitez said: "With the stories flying around - we haven't got enough, we have got enough - I don't think it's very fair on the squad."

He added: "They did such a terrific job last year and we've brought in some good players. We just wanted it to be about looking forward to the Premier League season, unfortunately it's not been that."