Rafael Benitez has identified his number one priority in the summer transfer window, and it’s exactly what Newcastle fans want to hear.

If ever a match summed up a team’s season, it was Newcastle’s 1-0 defeat at Wembley on Wednesday night.

The Magpies have done superbly well to avoid a late relegation scrap, after a four game winning streak earlier this year all but secured their safety.

At the heart of the Magpies’ success has been their defensive organisation, and once again they looked pretty solid in the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham.

Not only did they look solid, Rafa Benitez’s side actually created a fair few chances… but had no one to convert them.

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Benitez seems fully aware of this, and his comments on this summer’s transfer plans will be music to fans’ ears.

“Yes,” the boss responded when asked if he needed a new number nine this summer.

“We know that we need to keep the same team spirit, the same mentality, the same commitment from all these players and add a little bit more quality to help and be sure that in these kind of games you take your chances and win the games.”

The message of “quality” is what every fan will want to hear, though some will certainly be wary of any transfer rumours with Mike Ashley still in charge.

Benitez is clearly determined to stay on Tyneside, but fans will have to wait and see if he gets the backing he deserves.

Newcastle fans, how high can you finish next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below…