Newcastle United are in talks with Chelsea over a deal for Brazilian flyer Kenedy after he impressed on loan at St. James’ Park in 2017/18, according to a reliable journalist.
Simon Johnson, who writes for the Evening Standard, reported on his personal Twitter account on Monday that the two sides had been in discussions over a loan with an option to buy deal for the 22-year-old.
Johnson further claims that Chelsea’s asking price of more than £20million means that Newcastle have been forced to pursue an initial loan instead of an outright permanent transfer.
It is said that Chelsea’s willingness to open talks over the Brazilian’s future suggests he is not in their plans going forward after their fifth-placed finish last season.
#cfc are in talks with #nufc over departure of Kenedy. A loan with option to buy has been discussed. Chelsea are asking for £20m+ which is why Newcastle are looking to loan first. But fact Chelsea are open to negotiations suggests he’s not part of their plans.
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) July 2, 2018
Good move for Newcastle United?
Absolutely.
Kenedy was one of the club’s best players after arriving on loan from Chelsea last season, with his energy in wide areas providing the impetus needed for the Magpies to push on and avoid relegation.
The 22-year-old become a firm favourite on the terraces of St. James’ Park, and fans will surely love to see the Brazilian flyer back on Tyneside this summer.
A loan-to-buy option seems perfect for all parties, and this would be the best deal of Newcastle’s summer should they manage to pull it off.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
Kenedy has come out and said he would be happy to return to Newcastle next season, and it is quite clear that he is not in Chelsea’s long-term plans.
Newcastle’s efforts to secure a deal for him should therefore meet little resistance, and they will just need to work out a structured deal which makes sense for both them and the Blues.
The club therefore look to be in pole position to sign Kenedy this summer, and there should be more developments coming very soon.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 5/10
