Newcastle fans react as Martin Dubravka responds to Rafa Benitez speculation

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Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has refused to rule out Rafa Benitez’s return to St. James’ Park in an interview with Sport.SK amid reports he is on the new owners’ shortlist – and Toon fans have reacted on Twitter.

A takeover is reportedly imminent at St. James’ Park, with Mike Ashley accepting a £300million offer from a combination of Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners group, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Reuben Brothers.

Staveley’s PCP and the Reuben Brothers will both boast a 10% stake in Newcastle in a potential takeover, while PIF will control 80%. It will finally end Ashley’s 13-year reign, and many supporters are rejoicing on social media.

ESPN claimed on Tuesday that the new owners have compiled a four-man shortlist including ex-Toon boss Benitez, as well as Mauricio Pochettino, Lucien Favre and Max Allegri. On hearing the rumours about Benitez, Dubravka responded.

“If it happens and the club sells, it will probably come with a huge supply of finance. But I heard that Rafael Benitez could also come back. There is a lot of speculation,” Dubravka told Sport.SK about Benitez, who signed the player in January 2018.

The report also claims that Newcastle’s new-look board room have also initated contact with agents over potential signings. Negotiations are believed to have started with the agents of Willian, Edinson Cavani and Dries Mertens.

Newcastle supporters have reacted on Twitter to Dubravka’s comments, and many feel as though their goalkeeper is more in the know than he is letting on amid rumours a takeover is close – and Benitez could replace Steve Bruce.

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