Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson believes the HMRC’s investigation into Newcastle’s tax affairs could affect the future of manager Rafa Benitez.
In a highly speculative column for the Daily Star, the former Arsenal and Middlesbrough midfielder said that if the worst case scenario occurs, whereby the Magpies are hit with a transfer embargo, it may prompt Benitez to leave:
“It doesn’t look like they will be denied promotion because of the tax fraud probe but what if they’re hit with a transfer embargo? He might wonder whether it’s worth it if he doesn’t get a big transfer budget.”
“Without new signings they’ll finish 15th or 16th at best in the Prem. And he could walk into another job fairly easily. He would be in demand. The fans shouldn’t hold it against him either.”
At this point there is no certainty that HMRC will take action against Newcastle, and even if they do, it is unlikely at this moment in time to affect the summer transfer window.
A more critical determining factor will be Rafa’s next meeting with owner Mike Ashley where it is believed the club’s transfer budget will be decided upon ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Although unlikely to be near the £150million figure suggested by club legend Alan Shearer, the Chronicle have reported that a number close to £100m could be on the table.
