According to reports in The Mirror, Newcastle United are at risk of missing out on signing £17.5m-rated Benfica midfielder Andreas Samaris as Rafa Benitez’s budget headaches continue.

What’s the word, then?

Well, The Mirror says that Benitez is keen to complete a club-record deal to bring the defensive midfielder to St James’ Park before the start of the Premier League season later this month, with the Greece international himself keen on a move to England.

However, The Mirror says that as the Spanish manager continues to juggle his resources and the Magpies dither about paying the £17.5m asking price, they could miss out on the Greece international as he is not prepared to wait indefinitely for the newly-promoted club to strike a deal.

How did Samaris do last season?

He generally found himself in and out of the Benfica side but still made 32 appearances in all competitions – including 18 in the league and three in the Champions League.

The tall 28-year-old is able to play in both the central and defensive midfield positions, and he showed that he is comfortable in possession with a passing accuracy of 87% in those 18 Liga Nos outings.

While he made 19 clearances and 15 interceptions, Samaris also showed his strength in the air by winning 10 aerial duels.

Should Newcastle sign him?

It’s difficult to say.

Considering he is 28 years of age and has just two years remaining on his contract it is understandable that the Magpies would rather try and negotiate then pay the £17.5m asking price.

However, the Premier League season is less than two weeks away now and one would imagine that Benitez will not be happy with how his squad is looking right now, and he would have hoped to bring in more players.

If the Spaniard really does want Samaris – who would be an experience addition to the middle of the park for Newcastle – he should perhaps consider paying what it will take to get the Greece international, especially in a summer transfer window where prices are so heavily inflated.

What’s the verdict, then?

Well, Benitez knows his budget and what he needs to add to his squad, but risks may have to be taken sooner rather than later otherwise Newcastle could find themselves back in the Championship next year if they fail to strengthen.

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