“If he’s doing well on the pitch, the contract situation will be sorted out easily. What he has to do is keep on playing well and not being over-confident. If he continues to do well, he will have all the chances to stay,” Benitez said.
United sources are staying tight-lipped about the exact terms of the loan but German reports that he needs to play 20 games are not entirely accurate. Those with knowledge of the deal believe it is a permanent transfer “in all but name” – something that Newcastle fans will be happy to hear.