Benitez and Ronald Koeman got off to a bad start last season when the Toffees lost at the Amex Stadium
Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez is confident Everton’s poor start to the season will not influence his transfer plans in January.
The Toffees, who lost the first three games of the season, are sixth after one win in seven matches.
“I have a good relationship with Everton,” said Spaniard Benitez, who won the Premier League title at the club in 2005.
“I think they have made a good squad. Obviously they want to improve but I am sure they will improve.”
Benitez, who signed an improved deal at St James’ Park this week, hopes to make some signings in time for the start of the new Premier League season on 6 September.
“We are looking for one more striker,” he added. “We will look at other things too. Our target is good.”
It was reported on Thursday that Benitez wants the Magpies to spend in excess of £80m.
“I won’t say anything more than I said in the end of the summer,” he said. “We have to stay on our targets.”