Paul Merson: Newcastle must throw big money at Everton to get Rafa Benitez
Paul Merson has urged Newcastle United to throw any kind of money at Everton to secure the services of Rafa Benitez.
The Spaniard was linked with the post at St James’ Park after the recent takeover but is said to value his contract at Goodison Park with the Toffees.
Merson insisted that Benitez would be the perfect replacement for Steve Bruce and giving him a long-term deal is a right move.
Writing in his Daily Star column, Merson believes that the Magpies fans would immediately be back on board with the club.
“Newcastle should push the boat out and bring Rafa Benitez back to the club,” he wrote.
“They’re talking about Paulo Fonseca? Wow. He just got the sack for Jose Mourinho. How long would it take him to get to know the players and the league?
“Benitez knows them all already – and is massively popular with the fans.
“If you’re the new owners and you’ve got all the money in the world and you want to listen to the fans, just go to Everton and offer them loads of money for Benitez
“You need the fans on your side or you’ve got no chance. Get Rafa back. Give him a long contract and go from there.”
Dreaming.
Newcastle, Merson and all those that appear to be obsessed with this ever happening simply need to stop dreaming.
Benitez has already been quizzed on this potential move and has categorically shut them down without any hint of discomfort.
The Spaniard is known for valuing contracts throughout his career, and being settled in Merseyside is another big factor in why he will be going nowhere.
Newcastle would have to throw something silly at the Toffees in order to get this one across the line, and we would be talking eight-figures.
Farhad Moshiri needs to keep one man in charge though and give him the tools to build something, that is where it has gone wrong in recent years – too much change.
Benitez has shown early signs of promise, and once he has his full squad available and some new signings in January, we could be in for some success.
Let’s not throw that away this early.
In other Everton news, this Toffees defender is being watched very close with a major exit on the cards
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