Kenedy really is quite a coup for Newcastle United.
I know for a fact a lot of clubs across Europe have been sniffing around the Brazilian for a while. But Rafa Benitez has got his man.
That’s the power of having Rafa as manager. He can - and will - beat other teams to signings a lot of teams want. It’s the aura and draw he has.
Don’t get me wrong, Kenedy must only be the start - a striker is desperately needed, and a goalkeeper too if possible - but I’m excited to see what he can do at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United new signing Kenedy arrives at the training ground (Image: newcastle chronicle)
He needs to hit the ground running. He may only be 21, but Newcastle need players contributing straight away given the position we’re in.
What I’m pleased about it that Kenedy will have a good week to acclimatise, get to know his team-mates and begin to understand the role he is going to play in Rafa’s team.
He’s cup tied this weekend and can’t play against his parent club anyway. That then gives him a week to work with Rafa and his team-mates on the training ground to be ready for Burnley at home next week.
It can be difficult for loan players coming in if they just get thrown straight into a team a couple of days after arriving, but that isn’t going to happen.
I’m glad Kenedy has played a couple of cup games for Chelsea recently as well. That means he should have some match sharpness at the very least.
Whenever I’ve seen him play, I like the look of him. Yeah he’s raw in some ways, but he is exciting.
You can see he loves to attack, get to the byline and whip crosses into the box. He can beat a defender one on one, and he has a bit of power too.
I’m not sure where Rafa is planning on playing him, but at least he gives him a few options.
He will get bums off seats at St James’ Park - and I think the Newcastle fans will love him if he does impress.
Kenedy represents a good, if extremely late, start to Newcastle’s January business. Now let’s see far more to come.