Rafa Benitez admits he is still 'waiting for answers' to the proposals he has made to sign a new deal with Newcastle - and the Spaniard wants to see a blend of experience and youth with future signings.
ChronicleLive reported on Monday that the Magpies hope to come to an agreement with Benitez on a contract extension within the next fortnight, but the two parties are yet to agree to some of the conditions the 59-year-old wants in place.
As well as a revamp of the club's academy, training ground and scouting network, Benitez would like to see a more coherent transfer strategy behind the scenes so that the Magpies can compete rather than just survive.
The Newcastle boss had to push hard for the loan signing of Salomon Rondon, for example, last summer and faces another battle to convince club chiefs to stump up the cash to make the move permanent - despite the experienced Venezuelan being directly involved in 14 goals this season.
Speaking directly about his future earlier this month, Benitez said he was waiting for answers and with Mike Ashley on holiday, that remains the case.
‘"I am in contact with the club and I am waiting for answers to questions I have proposed to continue. My family is in England, here I am content, but a series of conditions have to be met," Benitez told Radio Marca.
“To stay, we need to sit down, talk about the economic possibilities of the club and what direction we’re going in. We have to mix experience and youth - that is the balance we have to achieve."
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