Benitez admits Kenedy could be out of Newcastle’s reach

Rafael Benitez admits Kenedy could price himself out of a permanent move to Newcastle if he continues his stunning form for the Magpies.

The 22-year-old Brazilian has been a key figure in the club’s fine run since he joined them on loan from Chelsea in January.

Bayern Munich, Paris St-Germain and Tottenham have all been linked with summer moves for Kenedy should he leave Stamford Bridge.

Asked if he feared Kenedy was increasing his value, former Chelsea interim boss Benitez said: “Yes, but if you say do you want him to score goals and the value will go up, then yes, I want him to score goals.

“That is it, football is like this. If you have a good player, the value goes higher. He has the level to play in a top team – but he is in a top side already.”

Benitez revealed Newcastle attempted to negotiate an option to buy the player as part of his loan move, but were unable to do so.

Benitez added: “When he receives the ball, he is always comfortable. He is never scared. He can make mistakes and give the ball away, but normally he is doing well.

“To come here and play at the level he is playing, you can say it is a surprise. It is not a surprise because we were expecting a good player.”