Rafa Benitez’s three year stay at Newcastle United will come to an end this Sunday when his contract expires.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez will open talks with Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang ahead of his departure from St James’ Park, according to a report.
The Magpies confirmed on their official Twitter account on Monday afternoon that Benitez will leave the club when his contract expires on Sunday.
Now, the Times are reporting that Benitez is set to open talks with Dalian Yifang, the Chinese Super League side that are willing to offer him £12 million a year to be their next manager.
The Chinese club initially expressed their interest in Benitez before the news of his departure was announced. At that time, many would have brushed off those claims.
However, now that the Spaniard is soon to be a free agent, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he does make the switch to China because there will be many clubs circling for his signature.
During the previous Premier League campaign, he guided Newcastle to a 13th-placed finish on a tight budget, with his team’s standout performance coming at home to champions Manchester City.
There’s no doubt that Benitez still has the capabilities of managing in the Premier League or elsewhere in Europe. He has managed in Italy and Spain during his career.
Given the short span time of managers in the Premier League, if Benitez is still a free agent by Christmas then his name will surely be touted for a job that could potentially become available during that period.
As for Newcastle, they now have to look for another manager to take the reigns in the North East as the relationship between the Toon Army faithful and Mike Ashley will now turn even more toxic.
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