Rafa Benitez Reportedly Trying to Complete Exciting Double Deal for Chelsea Pair
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is in the process of negotiating a double deal with Chelsea for the services of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Kenedy, according to Chronicle journalist Chris Waugh.
It is understood the Magpies are looking to sign Brazilian Kenedy - who spent the second half of the season on loan on Tyneside - on a permanent deal, while targeting a loan deal for Loftus-Cheek.
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Waugh wrote: “Rafa Benitez wants to sign at least one player from Chelsea this summer on loan – and a reunion with winger Kenedy is the top priority.
“However, Newcastle could look to sign the Brazilian on a permanent basis, then attempt to lure Loftus-Cheek on loan, given that he is a long-term target."
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As per league rules, clubs can only loan one player from another single Premier League club at any one time - so Loftus-Cheek's deal would depend upon whether Kenedy's deal was a permanent one.
Benitez is known to admire Loftus-Cheek and is looking for significant improvements for his Newcastle side this summer in a number of positions.
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According to some reports, Chelsea are looking at a £25m price tag should they chose to cash in on the midfielder, who spent the second half of the season on loan at Crystal Palace.
Loftus-Cheek has three years remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge.
The fee may be seen as beyond Newcastle's notoriously tight transfer limits this summer, hence the look towards a loan deal.
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The England midfielder is also understood to want to leave the London club should he not get assurances around regular football.
Loftus-Cheek is part of England's World Cup squad this summer in Russia, and impressed during a cameo appearance late on against Tunisia.
Should the player continue to impress in the World Cup, then it remains to be seen whether he is utilised more at Stamford Bridge - who are yet to confirm who will be in charge of the club next season, with the ongoing saga over Antonio Conte's future and the possible appointment of Maurizio Sarri.
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It remains to be seen whether deals can be agreed for Kenedy, and then possibly Loftus-Cheek, but should the club manage to finalise deals for the pair the Magpies will look significantly stronger ahead of next season.
