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Rafa Benitez is expected to get the green light to take his Newcastle United rebuilding project onto the next phase.

Benitez is yet to commence full transfer talks and will first focus on winning the last two matches of the season.

But the early signs down the corridors of power at St James’ Park are positive that Benitez and the club’s hierarchy can work together in the coming months.

Clarification on exactly who has full control on transfers will need to be sought this summer after the lines appeared to be blurred in January when Benitez said it hadn’t been his decision not to spend.

The Magpies boss was quizzed about his future during his Press conference in the immediate aftermath of the 4-1 win over Preston North End that sealed promotion and when asked about his future he indicated he was happy at the club.

He said: “You never know, that is football.

“I am really pleased to be here, and really happy and proud for everything we have achieved.

“I am sure if we do the right things, we have to prepare everything to be strong enough for the Premier League.”

Newcastle won’t go public on how much they have to spend but it is believed that Benitez could be allowed to spend up to £100million this summer.

As reported in the Chronicle yesterday, Benitez’s priority list includes a new centre-forward, left-winger, full-back cover and a new centre-back.

He will also aim to sign an influential central midfielder as the club look to bolster their options.

And there will be a recruitment drive on the Under-23 front to provide more back-up Benitez’s first team.