Rafa Benitez's surprising reaction to latest Moussa Sissoko and Gini Wijnaldum speculation

Sissoko – who helped France reach the final of 2016 and is keen to leave St James’s Park this summer – is wanted by Borussia Dortmund.

And Wijnaldum is interesting a number of clubs, including Everton.

Sissoko is due to return to Tyneside later this month after a brief holiday, while Wijnaldum could feature against Bohemian this afternoon at Dalymount Park.

Asked if the pair could still be at the club for the start of the new Championship campaign, United manager Benitez said: “Maybe, you never know.

“Our idea is to keep these players, if it’s possible, but we know how football is now and the market and agents.

“Gini has trained really well, and I’m very happy with him.

“And Moussa, I rate him very highly. He was very good for us at the end of the season and in the Euros.

“We know what is going on. A lot of people will be asking for them, but, at the moment, we will see if they can stay and improve the team.

“It not, we will find the best solution for the team.”