Leicester’s interest strengthens Benitez’s position in Newcastle stand-off with Ashley

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Leicester City are eyeing up a summer move for Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez, according to the Daily Mirror.

They report that the Foxes remain unconvinced about the merits of Claude Puel as a long-term option and are lining up Benitez as a potential replacement.

Benitez is reportedly in the middle of a stand-off with Mike Ashley over committing his future to Newcastle; looking for reasons to stay but unsure whether the owner will give him the correct backing.

The 2005 Champions League winner has also made pointed comments about remaining a winner, reiterating his desire to be at a club that can compete.

He said: “I still want to win trophies. I don’t like to play against any manager and not have the chance to compete, that is crucial. The main thing is the players, they can make the difference. But you have to be ambitious.”

Benitez wants to be backed by Ashley but also wants to have the upper hand in any stand-off between the pair; he has the unwavering backing of the supporters and interest from another Premier League club further strengthens his bargaining position.

It doesn’t seem like Benitez wants to leave Newcastle – he loves it there – but the threat of him walking out to join a Premier League rival could spur Ashley into life in terms of giving him what it takes to keep him.