Newcastle United remain on the hunt for quality that can provide a much needed boost to their Premier League survival hopes, after a difficult first-half of the campaign.
A host of names have been linked with a move to Tyneside but Rafael Benitez has had his say on one reported link, bringing an end to the clubs proposed interest in Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina.
The Spaniard has experience working with Benitez, with the pair having spent successful years together at Liverpool, and reports have continued to suggest that a reunion could be on the cards. However, Benitez has brought an end to that.
Quoted by The Daily Mirror, Benitez denied an interest in the 35-year-old veteran, with the report adding that it was Napoli’s £7.5m valuation that put Newcastle off.
“I have a strong bond with Pepe but we don’t have any intention to sign him,”
Newcastle continue to search for a new goalkeeper this month and Benitez is also keen to improve an attacking line that has scored just 20 goals in 22 games this season.
