Rafa Benitez is heading for a fresh showdown with Newcastle owner Mike Ashley over the latest transfer impasse.

The Spanish coach is furious Newcastle have failed to land Stoke striker Joselu after a £12million bid was turned down.

The Newcastle boss is desperate to land a striker before they return to the Premier League at home to Spurs next weekend.

Benitez is also frustrated that Ashley and chief executive Lee Charnley are refusing to enter the race for former winger Andros Townsend.

Newcastle's bid for Joselu was rejected by Stoke (
Image:
Action Images via Reuters / Craig Brough)
Benitez is keen on Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend (
Image:
Getty)

The England ace, who quit St James' Park 12 months ago, is free to leave Crystal Palace but they turned down a £10million offer.

Benitez is keen to re-sign Townsend but the board also refused to make a move for Townsend in January.

poll loading

Will Rafa Benitez keep Newcastle in the top flight next season?

6000+ VOTES SO FAR