Latest report claims Benitez is ‘almost certain’ to sign new Newcastle contract

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Rafa Benitez will be manager of Newcastle United next season, according to journalist Luke Edwards of the Telegraph.

Having made a concerted effort on Twitter to dispel fears that it’s an April Fools joke, Edwards reported that relations have thawed between Benitez and Magpies owner Mike Ashley.

Ashley has apparently finally realised what he has in Benitez and would view losing him as a failure, while the Spaniard feels loved and appreciated in the north east and will stay so long as assurances are made.

The report says it would now be a far bigger shock if Benitez left St James’ Park this summer than if he signed, which represents a major step forward and explicitly says at its conclusion that he will be manager of the club next season.

Newcastle’s fortunes next season and in the summer transfer window rest upon Benitez staying. If Ashley allows him to leave, the only glue holding the club together will disappear.

He is so central to their hopes and the morale of the club that Ashley cannot afford to lose him and it is a boost that he has finally realised that within enough time to keep him at the club beyond the summer.

Newcastle fans must hope Edwards is right and that the confirmation comes sooner rather than later.