Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has made his first signing of the January transfer window by landing Brazilian winger Kenedy on loan for the rest of the season, from Chelsea.
The Magpies currently find themselves in 15th place, hovering just one point above the relegation zone, having won just two of their last 15 Premier League games.
Benitez has been crying out for new recruits after a difficult summer where the Spanish manager failed to sufficiently bolster his squad, following a lack of investment from controversial club owner, Mike Ashley.
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Now, with a proposed takeover from Amanda Staveley hitting a roadblock, the likelihood of Benitez being able to strengthen his squad for a relegation battle has become even more slim, although Kenedy's arrival has at least offered the former Real Madrid and Napoli boss one new option.
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Speaking to Newcastle's official website about the move, the 21-year-old said, "I'm so happy with this opportunity at Newcastle. They've opened the door to me to come here, show my potential and come and play for Newcastle.
"It's a traditional club and Rafa Benítez is a fantastic, amazing coach. Christian Atsu, as well - we trained together at Chelsea and know each other, and he said good things about the club. So it was easy to take this decision."
Benitez added, "Kenedy is a player that we have been following since the summer. The reason we are interested is that he can play in several positions - as a winger, a wing back and also as an offensive left full back, so he gives the team many options.
"He has a great left foot and good energy. He is still a young player but he has some experience already in the Premier League and that will help with his adaptation. We welcome him to Newcastle United."
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The Brazilian is not allowed to play against his parent club, as per the loan agreement, which rules him out of this weekend's FA Cup fourth round clash between Newcastle and Chelsea, at Stamford Bridge, although the winger is expected to make his debut at St. James' Park against Burnley, next Wednesday.
Kenedy has yet to make an impact at Stamford Bridge since arriving from Fluminense, in 2015. The winger has made just 27 appearances for the Blues, while also enduring a difficult loan spell with Watford, last term, where he made just one appearance before returning to Chelsea.
Benitez will be hoping this loan spell fares much better for the Brazilian youngster.
Featured Image Credit: Newcastle UnitedTopics: Football News, Chelsea, Football, Premier League, Newcastle United
