Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has confirmed that he will schedule talks with Chelsea in the coming weeks to discuss the future of loan star Kenedy.
The Brazilian left-footed dazzler joined the Magpies on a temporary deal in January, and is set to return to Stamford Bridge when the season comes to a close this weekend.
Kenedy has scored two goals and provided two assists in 12 appearances for the Magpies since his arrival, and Benitez has made no secret of the fact that the club would like to keep him beyond the summer.
Speaking the pre-match press conference ahead of their trip to Wembley to face Tottenham on Wednesday, the Spaniard confirmed that the Magpies would enter talks with the Blues very soon, saying: “Kenedy has done really well for us. We will talk to Chelsea about his future.”
Rafa on Kenedy: “Kenedy has done really well for us. We will talk to @ChelseaFC about his future.” #NUFC pic.twitter.com/j5B3HVJfow
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) May 8, 2018
OPINION
It is a surprise to nobody that Newcastle will look to enter talks with Chelsea over the future of Kenedy this summer. Benitez has made no secret of his admiration for the Brazilian, and a permanent move to Tyneside for the 22-year-old has been touted for several weeks now. It is easy to see why Benitez likes the youngster, with Kenedy making an immediate impact at St. James’ Park. His energy and dynamism on the left flank has been a huge boost for a flagging Newcastle side, and has allowed them to steer clear of this final-day relegation battle. One issue that the Magpies may face in regards to these Chelsea talks is the fact that there is massive uncertainty surrounding the future of manager Antonio Conte. That could mean that Chelsea will hold off on selling anyone before a new boss is appointed, and could also mean Kenedy holding off on a decision until he knows who he may be playing under next season.
