Former Newcastle United ace David Ginola has warned the club that they risk losing manager Rafael Benitez unless he is given "the chance to compete" in the transfer market this summer.
The Magpies are thought to have already missed out on the signings of Tammy Abraham and Wilfredo Caballero, who are set to join Swansea City and Chelsea respectively.
It has been a frustrating few weeks for Benitez, reportedly leaving the ex-Real Madrid boss contemplating his future at St James' Park, just a month on from guiding United back to the Premier League.
Ginola understands Benitez's frustrations, urging Newcastle owner Mike Ashley to stop digging in his heels to avoid the nightmare scenario of losing their respected manager ahead of the new campaign.
"You need to provide a manager like Rafa Benitez with all the amenities to help him be successful," he is quoted as saying by the Daily Star.
"You have to give him the chance to compete. Fans want to see the club more involved in the transfer market. You can't just stand there and watch. Players will go and sign for other clubs and all of a sudden, it's too late."
Newcastle's hopes of signing Fabian Delph from Manchester City are also said to be dwindling, while the proposed £8.5m capture of Eibar defender Florian Lejeune remains in the balance.
