Celtic linked Rafael Benitez and Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley are currently locked in talks over the Spaniard’s future at the club.
Benitez is out of contract at the end of next month and has so far put off signing a new deal with Newcastle over concerns about the club’s broken promises in the transfer market. He has been linked with Scottish giants Celtic and is amongst the bookmakers' favourites for the post.
The Spaniard navigated Newcastle to a 13th place finish in the Premier League table, but wants the club to challenge for a top half finish, which he feels will require investment in the squad.
Benitez wants to stay but wants assurances over transfer funds this summer before he agrees to sign a new contract with the club; if he is not convinced about staying, it could potentially open the door for Celtic to swoop in.
According to the Chronicle, the Newcastle manager and owner Ashley are currently holding talks over his future at the club, in a sign the process is now starting to move along and a resolution over Benitez's future could be close.
The Newcastle owner is aware that the Spaniard remains popular amongst the fans and his departure could further antagonise the supporters.
However, it remains to be seen whether he is prepared to offer the guarantees Benitez has been seeking in order to keep him on Tyneside.
Ashley has also been keen to sell the club but so far his tough negotiating stance has put off potential buyers.
