According to reports, Rafael Benitez is close to signing a new deal to stay at Newcastle United.
The Mirror note that the former Liverpool and Real Madrid coach will meet with club owner Mike Ashley this week as the Magpies look to tie the Spaniard down to a new deal.
While Benitez oversaw Newcastle’s relegation to the Championship, the experienced coach became a popular figure among the club’s fans and bowed out with a bang after defeating Tottenham Hotspur 5-1 at St James’ Park on the final day of the season.
Benitez is already understood to have agreed personal terms with the club, according to the tabloid, and has agreed on a three-year deal, with the only sticking point being a new management structure at the club which will allow the Champions League-winning manager control over transfers.
Benitez began the 2015-16 campaign at Real Madird, but was relieved of his duties during the season, and took over at Newcastle following a period out of work.
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The Magpies ended the campaign in 18th, having lost 19, drawn 10 and won just nine of their matches this season.