Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has revealed there is little chance the club could allow Christian Atsu to leave early, as quoted in the Sunderland Echo.
The 25-year-old was touted as a potential target for Turkish outfit Basaksehir over the last few days, with the Super Lig leaders reported in Fanatik to have started discussions with parent club Chelsea. A deal was said to be close in that particular report, though Benitez has moved to quash such suggestions.
With the Magpies a little light in wide areas, the Ghanian will seemingly stay at least until the end of this season, when the Toon then have the option to make his deal permanent should they wish.
Atsu hasn’t always been a regular in black and white, making 16 appearances thus far and largely being brought on from the bench. He’s so far notched three goals – though crucial ones – in tight games over Norwich City, Rotherham United and Wigan Athletic.
Currently away on international duty at the African Cup of Nations, Benitez seems certain over his future on Tyneside.
”No chance”, said Rafa.
“I will tell you now that he is really pleased and really happy here. “We have the player on loan with an option. Nothing has changed. The player is happy. We have the control and a very good relationship with Chelsea, so everything is fine.”
