Ashley must provide Benitez with the funds to secure deal for prolific 13-goal striker

According to The Mirror, Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez is keen on a January move for Leeds striker Kemar Roofe. However, they also report that the funds may not be made available by owner Mike Ashley.

What’s the story?

The Mirror report that Benitez is looking for a clinical striker to bring goals to St James’ Park – so it is no surprise that Roofe is on his radar given that the 25-year-old has netted 13 goals in 18 Championship appearances so far this season.

The report also claims though that Benitez may not be provided with any funds for new signings by the ever-controversial Ashley. Denying the Magpies any additions could be a fatal move for their life in the Premier League, especially as the current striking options are Salomon Rondon, Ayoze Perez, Yoshinori Muto and Joselu.

Ashley must back his manager in the winter window with at least one big signing, and Roofe looks like he has all the attributes to be that man.

Perfect striker

Roofe has an extremely impressive all round game. Not only has he proven himself to be clinical in front of goal this season but he also has pace, a strong work ethic and the ability to win headers up against far taller defenders.

His goals have helped Leeds to the top of the Championship table though and it is highly likely that the West Yorkshire side would put up a fight to keep hold of him.

However, Marcelo Bielsa’s side do have record signing Patrick Bamford as their current back-up striker, so a deal could potentially happen if Ashley provides enough money for Benitez to convince Leeds.

from FootballFanCast.com http://bit.ly/2CHF23y