Benitez’s future has been hinging on talks with Newcastle’s board.
The Chronicle claimed earlier this week that the former Liverpool manager has told managing director Lee Charnley that he has no intention of leaving the Toon this summer, despite his contract set to expire at the end of next season.
It has seen Benitez linked with a whole host of clubs this month, with the strongest interest coming from down south at West Ham United and Arsenal. However, West Ham appointed Manuel Pellegrini, while Arsenal are expected to announce Unai Emery.
Despite holding positive talks with Charnley, the Express have now claimed that Benitez’s short-term future is still up in the air by reporting he is yet to reject Zenit, contrary to reports that suggested he had rejected the Russians’ offer.
Benitez is one of three candidates on Zenit’s shortlist, along with Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri and former Zenit player Sergei Semak. The club, who reached the Europa League’s Round of 16 last season, will make a decision on Friday.
The former Real Madrid boss has orchestrated Newcastle’s superb season with a 10th-placed finish, despite flirting with relegation throughout. A 3-0 win on the last day of the season against Chelsea encapsulated an excellent campaign.
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