Newcastle United have “concretely positioned themselves” for Lyon manager Bruno Genesio, according to RMC Sport.
The French news outlet claims that the Magpies have moved “closer” to the agent of the 52-year-old, who is on the verge of leaving Lyon.
It is understood that Genesio is “approaching” the exit doors at the Ligue 1 club after failing to reach the French Cup final.
Lyon lost 3-2 to Rennes in the semi-finals of the competition on Tuesday.
OPINION
Rafa Benitez’s future at St James’ Park has been one of the biggest talking points this season with the Spaniard’s contract set to expire in the summer. It remains unclear whether or not the ex-Liverpool manager will pen new terms with Newcastle, but it seems as though the Premier League club has started to eye up potential replacements for him if he does go. Genesio has done a decent job at Lyon on the whole. Managing in Ligue 1 is a difficult task at the moment due to Paris Saint-Germain’s domination, but Genesio has still led Lyon to top-four finishes in each of his seasons in charge and did well to reach the Champions League knock-out stages this term. It will be a trophyless year for Lyon though and that clearly doesn’t sit right with their board. He might be a good hire for Newcastle, but fans would definitely prefer to see Benitez stay.
