Rafa Benitez agrees to lead Newcastle’s return into the Premier League after ‘positive’ talks with Mike Ashley
Magpies owner promises to back Spanish boss in the transfer market following promotion from the Championship
RAFA BENITEZ is set to stay at Newcastle after holding a “positive” meeting with Mike Ashley.
The Newcastle boss met the club’s owner last night to discuss transfer plans ahead of their Premier League return.
And Benitez was happy with what he heard, with Ashley promising him “every last penny that the club generates through promotion, player sales and other means in order to build for next season”.
Keep up to date with all the latest news, gossip, rumours and done deals in SunSport’s live transfer blog
The Spaniard said: “I’m pleased with how the meeting went and the positive approach we are all taking together to build on what we have started this season.
“There will be challenges ahead of course, the summer will not be easy, but the hard work has been going on for some time.
“We can now continue positively with the development of the squad ahead of the start of the new season.
“I wish fans an enjoyable summer!”
A club statement said: “Newcastle United can confirm that a meeting has taken place between the club’s owner, Mike Ashley, managing director Lee Charnley, and manager Rafa Benitez.
“It was agreed by all parties that the meeting was very positive and constructive. Mike again congratulated Rafa and his team on gaining promotion to the Premier League as champions.
"Plans for next season were discussed, including the purchase and loan of players to add to the squad in readiness for the Premier League season.”