Newcastle United have struggled for consistency in front of goal in the Premier League, finding the net just three times in their last five matches.
Summer signing Joselu, who arrived from Stoke City for £5m, has failed to set the world alight and it’s hardly surprising given that the Spaniard was not Rafael Benitez’s first-choice in the transfer market.
Instead, Benitez was keen to sign Stevan Jovetic from Inter Milan and was confident he could win the race for the Montenegro international, who eventually joined French champions Monaco for a measly sum of £10m.
Now, Chronicle journalist Chris Waugh has lifted the lid on the pursuit and claims the board refused to give Benitez the funds to sign the striker, who is now sat on the bench in the French principality.
‘Benitez firmly believed that he could win the European-wide race for the Montenegro international who he attempted to sign at Liverpool, only for the Reds owner to refuse to part with the necessary cash.’
‘Even in spite of that, Benitez has kept in contact with Jovetic’s representatives, while he also spoke to officials he trusts at the San Siro, where he briefly managed. Had United freed the necessary funds, then Jovetic may have been leading the line at St James’ Park, rather than sitting on the bench at Monaco.’
The comments are likely to add to the relief amongst fans that Mike Ashley’s controversial tenure as owner is coming to an end, with discussions behind the scenes regarding a takeover continuing to take place.
