Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez wants to remain with the club, but needs assurances over his transfer budget, reports the Telegraph.
West Ham are expected to make an approach for him to become their new manager, as they themselves report a deal to appoint a new manager is close.
There is a £6 million release clause in the Spaniard’s contract, with the Hammers appearing willing to pay it for someone who has the knowledge and success off Benitez in this league.
However, no agreement has been reached yet and Benitez would be keen to remain on Tyneside.
Rafa sees the club only improving with him in charge, but wants money guaranteed to back his plans for the Magpies.
The Irons are looking for improvement after a 13th placed finish, and appointing the Spaniard would go a long way to ensuring the wildest dreams of West Ham fans are realised.
West Ham showed they aren’t afraid to spend when signing Marko Arnautovic and Javier Hernandez last summer, so Benitez would perhaps be happier with the board in East London than in the North East.
