Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez growing frustrated at lack of transfer activity: 'When I decided to stay, I was expecting another thing'

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Rafa Benitez has admitted his frustration over Newcastle United's lack of transfer activity.

The Spaniard has seen around £30million spent on signings following their promotion to the Premier League but feels he has been sold short.

Speaking after Newcastle's 2-0 friendly win over Hellas Verona on Sunday, Benitez said: 'When I decided to stay, I was expecting another thing. Now we are where we are.

Rafa Benitez has admitted his frustration over Newcastle United's lack of transfer activity

Benitez is set the call on the majority of those who achieved promotion back to the top flight

The Spaniard is interested in bringing Arsenal striker Lucas Perez to St James' Park

'I decided to stay because of a lot of positive things I could see starting with the fans.

'Now I will try my best to ensure the team can compete and stay as high as we can in the Premier League.'

Benitez also confirmed his interest in Arsenal's Lucas Perez. It comes with star striker Dwight Gayle currently having issues with a hamstring injury.

'I like the player because I have good friends in A Coruna,' Benitez said of Perez. 'I know he did really well.

'He's come here and not played in many games, but I like the player.' 

Goalscorers Ayoze Perez (centre) and Christian Atsu (left) celebrate after the latter's goal

Perez side-footed home past Nicolas Andrade to give Newcastle a fourth-minute lead

Atsu wheels away after meeting Jonjo Shelvey's pass to double Newcastle's lead on Sunday