North-East report makes intriguing admission after Andy Carroll is linked with NUFC return
After a 'bust up' with David Moyes, seeing the bookies make us 3/1 favourites to sign him, the Chronicle have admitted that Rafa Benitez is actually a 'known admirer' of Andy Carroll - refusing to rule out a potential move for the striker this summer.
Despite several injuries and stuttering spells at Liverpool and West Ham, the Gateshead born striker has bee consistently linked with a move back to Tyneside ever since he was sold for £35m back in January 2011.
It was confirmed yesterday that he's been involved in a heated clash with West Ham boss David Moyes, leaving his future with the Hammers well and truly up in the air.
As ever, this has fuelled inevitable rumours that he may finally seal his return to St James' this summer, but there could actually be some substance to this..
Here's what the Chronicle have had to say about the situation, stating Benitez is a big fan of the 6ft 4' striker - suggesting a summer move could yet be on the cards:
"Rafa Benitez is a known admirer of the Geordie striker who will turn 30 next season.
"Not only that but he will be in need of a new striker during the summer transfer window after Islam Slimani’s loan spell on Tyneside did not work out."
It's fair to say fans are totally split on this one - and rightly so. Given his age, injury record and potentially high wages, I can see why plenty would be against bringing him back, however there's also reason to believe he could be revitalised playing back at his boyhood club under Rafa.
It'd be a risk either way and one I can't see Rafa taking in the end, but it's very interesting to read that the Spaniard is a 'big fan' of the striker.
Let us know your thoughts folks. Would you like to see Benitez bring him back this summer?
