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The Telegraph have delivered the report all Newcastle fans have been waiting for, claiming Rafael Benitez is close to signing a new deal with the club.
What’s the story?
According to The Telegraph, it is “almost certain” that Benitez will extend his stay on Tyneside.
The Toon Army have been desperate for some concrete news on the Spaniard’s future, and the report claims that despite the lack of information available in the press, “concrete” talks have taken place over a new deal.
Mark Douglas of The Evening Chronicle has added to the reports, saying: “It’s more likely than not”, but stopping short of siding entirely with The Telegraph’s report.
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A boost in more ways than one
It goes without saying that signing Benitez to a long-term deal would be a massive coup for the club.
The lovable Magpies boss has multiple league titles and European medals to his name, and his man management with such a limited squad on Tyneside has been nothing short of exceptional.
What is just as promising though is the fact that Benitez would likely not stay without the promise of some proper signings.
The Evening Chronicle reported in February that the boss was already preparing his plans for the summer window, so why would he pen a new contract if those preparations had not been heeded upstairs?
Mike Ashley has taken plenty of (deserved) stick for his transfer dealings, but after smashing the club’s record to sign Miguel Almiron, penning Benitez to a long-term deal would be the clearest indicator yet that the infamous owner may be about to take the shackles off, because quite simply, “Rafa” would not stay otherwise.
