Andres Iniesta to Newcastle: Rafa Benitez opens door on move for Barcelona icon
NEWCASTLE UNITED boss Rafael Benitez has opened the door for Andres Iniesta to move to St James’ Park.
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Barcelona legend Iniesta has confirmed he will leave the Nou Camp at the end of the season but is set to extend his playing career.
Spaniard Benitez hailed the midfield genius as one of the the Blaugrana's all-time greats and joked that he “could come here”.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?”
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Maybe he could come here?
Benitez has won plaudits for his work on Tyneside but he faces an uncertain future at the club.
He is out of contract at the end of next season and Newcastle bosses are eager to secure his signature.
“We have had conversations and we will have conversations next week,” he said.
“My representatives are talking with Lee Charnley but I want to concentrate on the game.”
Newcastle host West Brom tomorrow (3pm) and will hope to consolidate their spot in the top 10.
The Championship-bound Baggies have hit some form under caretaker Darren Moore and Benitez hailed the rookie gaffer.
“Darren Moore is doing a great job,” he said.
“We don’t relegate anyone - it depends on the points you have.
“We will do our job to get three points and I’m sure West Brom will do the same.”