Newcastle United have faced a vast period of uncertainty this summer as the club have struggled to establish themselves comfortably in the Premier League and have remained on sale following Mike Ashley’s decision earlier in the campaign.
Optimism of a takeover before Christmas quickly fell away, after Ashley’s talks with Amanda Staveley collapsed, and many feared it would provide a huge impact on Rafael Benitez’s future at St. James’ Park.
The Spaniard had become frustrated during last summer’s transfer window due to a lack of backing in the market and also had funds restricted in January, where he signed Martin Dubravka, Kenedy and Islam Slimani on-loan.
Despite those woes, The Sunderland Echo hands fans a significant boost as it’s stated that Benitez is ready to open contract renewal talks with Newcastle regardless of whether Mike Ashley remains in charge or not.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss is a fan favourite on Tyneside and has opened the door for extension talks to take place at the end of the season.
