West Ham are closing in on a replacement for Sam Allardyce, with Rafa Benitez now the ‘odds on favourite’ to replace him as manager, claims the London Evening Standard.
Allardyce’s contract is up at the end of the season, and after four fairly successful seasons in the Upton Park dugout, it’s probably in the mutual interest of both parties if they part ways this summer.
The 60-year-old recently spoke about his future following the Hammers’ 2-1 loss to Everton on Saturday, leaving them with only three wins in 20 games.
“I’d like to stay but that depends on a lot of anomalies in terms of negotiation. I’ve never heard any of the board say they want to get rid of me but I’ll find out next week, won’t I? If they do, I can then ask them why and see if they’ll give me an honest answer.” he told reporters.
Benitez is in a similar situation at Napoli, with his deal up in the summer, and will be looking for a new club, and has been linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City.
The former Liverpool and Chelsea boss has over 12 major honours to his name as manager, including two UEFA Cups/Europa League titles, that famous Champions League victory with Liverpool and two domestic league titles with Valencia.
COMMENT: Would you like Rafa Benitez to replace Sam Allardyce as manager? Let us know by commenting, or tweeting us directly @TheIronsCircle.
