Newcastle United have insisted they will back Rafa Benitez in the transfer market but are growing increasingly frustrated with him venting his annoyance through certain sections of the media.
Back page headlines last weekend and subsequent reports suggested that Benitez was considering his future unless he got funds to bolster his squad.
Newcastle sources are now insistent that they are providing funds to bolster the squad – despite the fact they have only brought in Christian Atsu so far this summer.
But Newcastle hierarchy are not happy by what they perceive as Benitez driven reports.
Newcastle have now assured the Spaniard that they are working hard on targets but have also made their feelings known about the recent headlines, which they were far from happy about.
Newcastle, who have also held talks with a Chinese consortium in recent weeks about potential investment which could even lead to a takeover – do not want reports of discontent or even a possible parting of the ways with their manager emerging.
Benitez’s own team, led by his closest confidant Owen Brown, insist that he will not be quitting before the start of the season.
Recent talk has also seen some Bookmakers open markets on whether Benitez will still be at Newcastle at the start of the season and he is 1/20 to be with The Magpies on the opening day.
Spokesman Paddy Power said: “Could Rafa Benitez be heading out of Toon after his disrupted transfer plans?
“We think it’s quite black and white, though – and that he’ll remain in position for the first game of the season.”