Rafa Benitez has played down suggestions that Chelsea target Jamaal Lascelles will leave Newcastle this summer.
Chronicle Live reports that the Magpies boss is desperate to keep hold of Lascelles with big-money moves being touted for the former Nottingham Forest man.
Hopefully he can be here for 500 games or more. To be a leader on and off the pitch for a young player is great.
Chelsea have long been credited with an interest in the player, with his leadership skills and no-nonsense defending not going unnoticed at Stamford Bridge.
Lascelles has been tipped to make it into the England squad sooner rather than later, even if the World Cup comes around too quickly for him.
An England call-up would only add fuel to the speculation about his future at St James’ Park.
Since joining the club Lascelles has been played an influential role in the side that won the Championship at the first attempt.
Benitez will be keen to keep hold of the defender and build upon a successful first season back in the top flight.
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