Bizarre Claim Could Be True

Last updated : 05 April 2019 By Footy Mad - Editor

Has Rafa enlisted an agency with the task of sourcing a job in Ligue 1?

Of all the claims and counter-claims we've heard concerning Benitez's Newcastle future, L'Equipe offered up one of the most bizarre so far on Thursday.

Image result for Newcastle United v Crystal Palace

The French publication alleges that Benitez and his lawyer, Richard Green, met with intermediaries from Score Agencies in order to source potential work for the United manager in Ligue 1 next season.

Was Benitez present at this supposed meeting in Manchester on March 6? Is he seeking employment in the French top flight? Or does he want to remain on Tyneside beyond the end of the season?

Fans had hoped that progress would have been made concerning Benitez's future during the international break, but the 58-year-old insisted last week that nothing had changed in that regard.

But, alongside L'Equipe's claims, fellow French publication RMC reported that Newcastle and West Ham United are "concretely positioning themselves" to make a move for Lyon manager Bruno Genesio this summer, should either of the two Premier League clubs' managers leave.

There have also been suggestions that Benitez has been offered a fresh two-year extension from United as the Magpies look to resolve his future.

So has Benitez held any detailed conversation with managing director Lee Charnley this week about his own position? And have talks been pencilled in for a specific date yet?