Newcastle approach Ligue 1 boss as Benitez successor, reports say

NEWCASTLE United sources have played down talk they are lining up a replacement for Rafa Benitez – despite reports in France claiming a super agent has been approached for the services of a top Ligue 1 manager.

L’Equipe reported last night agent Pini Zahavi had been asked by United about the services of Lyon chief Bruno Genesio.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas – who Newcastle have encountered before during their failed pursuit of Alexandre Lacazette a few years ago – is keen to extend the contract of Genesio.

However, United officials are believed to want to give Rafa Benitez every chance of extending his stay at St James’ Park.

The Spaniard has insisted he will not discuss his future until Newcastle are officially confirmed of their Premier League place as they look to stave off the threat of relegation. Previously, United have not had a contingency plan in place if Benitez does decide to depart this summer. However, the club’s decision to revamp the Academy and bring in three new positions for the 2019/20 season suggests Benitez has won part of his battle for changes.

What is now left to be decided is whether the training ground is improved and how much spending money will come the manager’s way for the next transfer window. United were also linked with Brendan Rodgers earlier this year but he decided to quit Celtic to take the Leicester City job as he wanted to make the switch back to the Premier League at the earliest opportunity.