Shields Gazette reporter Liam Kennedy has claimed the future of Rafa Benitez could be an indicator on how the Newcastle takeover saga is going.
The Spaniard has been linked with a return to the Premier League this summer, with the Athletic claiming Benitez is a target for Everton.
The Toffees are one of four Premier League clubs looking for a new manager.
In his column for the Telegraph, Jamie Carragher has implored Everton to consider the former Newcastle and Liverpool boss.
The Athletic have reported that Benitez would be keen on the Everton job. However, Kennedy believes he wants a different job.
The Shields Gazette reporter claimed on Twitter that Benitez wants to return to Newcastle if there is a takeover.
He also added that if Benitez joins another club, it might be an indication that things aren’t going well on the takeover front.
What is happening with the Newcastle takeover?
Benitez left Newcastle in 2019, amid a fractured relationship with owner Mike Ashley.
The past 12 months at St James’ Park has been dominated by takeover talk.
PCP Capital Partners agreed a deal to buy the club. However, the Public Investment Fund, who were set to own 80%, walked away in July amid a prolonged Owners’ and Directors’ test.
Nearly a year on and Newcastle are embroiled in two legal battles against the Premier League as Ashley looks to salvage the takeover.
An arbitration hearing is set to take place next month.
Dream scenario of a Benitez return and Newcastle takeover feels unlikely
As it stands, a return for Benitez feels impossible. A conclusion over the takeover saga is far from close, while the 61-year-old is hardly going to hang around forever.
There are multiple Premier League jobs available right now which would surely interest Benitez.
He certainly has unfinished business at St James’ Park, but it’s hard to believe his immediate future will provide any clues as to whether or not a takeover is close.
Sadly, a summer of uncertainty looms large once again for Newcastle United.
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