Newcastle United are being linked with a bizarre move for Jaap Stam.
According to a bizarre report from Tutto Mercato Web, Newcastle United want Reading boss Jaap Stam if Rafael Benitez was to leave the club.
The Magpies lost 1-0 at Arsenal on Saturday afternoon, meaning they have now lost eight of their last nine Premier League games, and now sit in the relegation zone.
Manager Benitez is desperate for a boost from somewhere, and that may come in the form of Amanda Staveley, whose takeover of the club appears to be moving closer.
The Mirror report that Benitez’s job is not in any sort of danger despite the poor run of form, and concerns that he could walk away from the job if not backed in January, but a bizarre report in Italy suggests that the Magpies have a name in mind if the Spaniard does go.
Tutto Mercato Web claim that Newcastle are eyeing up Reading boss Jaap Stam as a possible target if Benitez – for whatever reason – isn’t in the job in the near future.
Former Manchester United defender Stam, 45, impressed with Reading last season, guiding them to the Championship play-off final in his first season in charge, and boasts a 48% win rate in charge of the Royals.
The Dutchman has caught the eye with Reading, but a move to Newcastle would be a huge shock, with seemingly no fears over Benitez’s future, and even apparent optimism that he could have money to spend in January.
Newcastle may have some worries over the recent form, but they are unlikely to find a better manager than Benitez, and with no Premier League experience as a manager, it’s hard to see the Magpies making a move for Stam any time soon, even with the uncertainty at St. James’ Park.
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