George Caulkin has provided an update on Rafael Benitez’s situation amid claims that he wants to come back to Newcastle United if the proposed takeover goes through.
A piece in the Daily Telegraph claimed that Benitez wants to return to Tyneside and that he would also like to sign John Stones and Ross Barkley – if Amanda Staveley’s Saudi-backed consortium get the approval they require from the Premier League.
This led to one Newcastle fan asking Caulkin how he sees the situation, and The Athletic reporter said that the situation is ‘incredibly complicated’ both because of Benitez’s ‘very lucrative contract’ and ‘the position in China.’
Caulkin reminded Newcastle fans that someone still has the role of the Toon’s manager and that he will remain in place for now.
Do you want Benitez back if the takeover is approved?
Yes
No
What do we think?
Benitez left Tyneside last summer, citing the broken trust between him and the board as the main reason.
Still, if Mike Ashley were to finally leave Newcastle, then the Spaniard could be tempted to return to St James’ Park.
Under Benitez, Newcastle won the Championship title and finished in 10th and 13th place, in the Premier League.
The proposed takeover of Newcastle is currently with the Premier League, and according to Caulkin, they have not given their approval of the deal yet.
This, despite the fact, both The Sun and the Daily Star seem to think an announcement is close.
It will be interesting to see if the potential new owners do go back for Benitez or if they go for someone like Mauricio Pochettino – who has been heavily linked with the job.