Benitez should not sanction Shelvey departure while no new arrivals appear close

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Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has hinted that Jonjo Shelvey will remain at the club in the immediate future, according to the Newcastle Chronicle.

Shelvey’s maverick approach has always been at odds with Benitez’s meticulous style and the London-born midfielder has been linked with a return to the capital during this month’s transfer window.

One of Newcastle’s relegation rivals, Fulham, have been linked with a swap deal between Shelvey and their captain Tom Cairney, while West Ham have also reportedly eyed up a swoop.

But Benitez has been speaking about his side’s January activity and with no new faces looking close to arriving in the north east, he said: “I said before that Elliott was available, the others it depends. The idea is to keep as much as we can.”

It’s clear that Newcastle need new blood through the door this month and given the financial situation at the club, sales may be necessary to finance any signings.

But with no deals on the horizon, Benitez is right to intend to keep as many of his current players together as he possibly can.

The only scenario worse than a January without signings would be one with no new-boys and the departure of established first-team stars such as Shelvey.

Shelvey simply should not be allowed to leave until Benitez is sure Ashley has secured him a clear upgrade; they are on the market, it’s a case of getting them through the door.