Newcastle are set to launch a triple raid for three of Chelsea’s brightest prospects this summer, according to the Shields Gazette.
Attacking midfield trio Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Kenedy and Kasey Palmer are all on former Blues manager Rafa Benitez’s shortlist for permanent or loan moves as he looks to build on last season’s 10th place finish at St James’ Park.
The Shields Gazette report all three are on Newcastle’s radar, although with clubs only able to loan one player from each Premier League rival, they will be forced to either shell out for permanent transfers or settle for just one of the trio.
OPINION
Experience has taught Newcastle fans not to get too excited about any transfer link until multiple media outlets are reporting that talks are advanced. Interest in three hugely promising young players is all well and good, but is owner Mike Ashley willing to sanction the spending needed to seal the deals. Permanent signings of England international Loftus-Cheek and rising star Palmer are surely out of the question, especially if the former makes a major impact at the World Cup. He will be miles out of Newcastle’s price range at that point. A deal for Kenedy is more feasible, although a fee of around or above £20million might be too much for Ashley’s delicate sensibilities. The Brazilian made a big impression while on loan in the second half of last season, bringing a zip to the attack that had previously been lacking and there is a sense that he could be a regular creator and scorer if he were to join for an entire campaign.
