Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez eyeing up sensational swoop for Barcelona star Andres Iniesta this summer
Iniesta emotionally revealed he was leaving the La Liga giants this summer and was expected to move to China
NEWCASTLE boss Rafa Benitez is eyeing up a sensational swoop for Barcelona star Andres Iniesta this summer.
Iniesta, 33, emotionally revealed he was leaving the La Liga giants this summer during a press conference on Friday.
The 124-cap Spain international was expected to move to the Chinese Super League… but Benitez has now opened the door for a stunning move to St James’ Park.
Benitez said: “Along with so many great names, he was one of Barcelona’s key players.
“He is a great player, a nice person, and I hope he does well in his career.
“Maybe he could come here?”
Should Iniesta bag a move to the Toon, he would face competition in the middle of the park from the likes of in-from Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden.
However, the Spaniard is expected to leave Europe, even if it’s not to China.
IN OUT Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta confirms he will leave this summer as Chinese Super League move nears
On Friday he revealed: “There are still things to be sorted. I have said I will never play against Barca, so I won’t play in Europe.”
During his press conference, Iniesta also said: “This is my last season here. I have thought my decision through for a long time.
“For me, Barca is the best club in the world – this club has given me everything.
“It’s a very difficult day for me, to be here saying goodbye when I’ve spent my whole life here at Barcelona.
“A great deal of who I am, is down to Barca and La Masia – I am very thankful to them.
“To all Cules, who have seen me grown as a player, and accompanied me in the good and bad times, thank you.”