RAFAEL BENITEZ has repeated his assertion that Moussa Sissoko will not be leaving Newcastle United this summer – despite the midfielder having spelled out his determination to move on earlier today.
Sissoko admits he wants to leave “as early as possible” in the wake of last season’s relegation, but Benitez has always maintained that he wants to keep the Frenchman at St James’ Park.
- Moussa Sissoko claims Newcastle's £35m asking price 'changes nothing'
- ANALYSIS: Why selling Moussa Sissoko will be the best way for everybody to move on
The Magpies manager claims he has not placed a specific price on Sissoko’s head despite widespread suggestions that Newcastle would be willing to accept £35m for the 26-year-old.
And while Sissoko is clearly determined to force through a move away from Tyneside, his manager remains confident he will not be leaving during the current transfer window.
Speaking in an interview with NUFC TV, Benitez said: “We know he finished the season in really good form for us. I made him the captain so I rate him really highly.
“I’m disappointed because they (France) didn’t win (Euro 2016), but happy because of his performances. Now we have to wait.
“People are talking about ‘This price’ or ‘This price’, but we don’t want to sell so we haven’t put any price, and we are pleased, we are happy with him.
“I appreciate him too much to think about that. We know he has done really well and a lot of people will be talking about him, but we’d like to see him here and that’s it.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel