Tuesday 8 May 2018 14:51, UK
Rafael Benitez has expressed his interest in making the signings of Newcastle loanees Kenedy and Martin Dubravka permanent over the summer.
Winger Kenedy and goalkeeper Dubravka have both impressed since joining the Magpies from Chelsea and Sparta Prague respectively during the January transfer window.
The duo starred during a four-game Premier League winning streak across March and April, which all but ensured Newcastle's Premier League status for another season.
"Kenedy is a player that we like," Benitez said.
"He has been doing really well and we have to wait and come back and talk with Chelsea about his future.
"Dubravka is an easy one because we have the option and it's not a secret that we are happy with him, so we will see how we finish but that is an easy one."
Benitez, who has one year left on his contract, provided no clear update on his future.
Since reaching the 40-point mark by beating Arsenal in mid-April, Newcastle have suffered defeats to Everton, West Brom and Watford.
Despite the slump, support for Benitez from Newcastle players and fans alike remains overwhelming.
"In terms of the conversations with the club, it is still the same," Benitez added.
"We have no news. I am not thinking of a time frame, but we have plenty of time this week to talk."
Benitez took charge at Newcastle in March 2016, and after suffering relegation from the Premier League months later, the 58-year-old penned a three-year deal as he looked to seal an immediate return to the top tier.
The club did so with relative ease, winning last season's Sky Bet Championship title with 95 points, one clear of Brighton.
