Report: Newcastle have considered Gennaro Gattuso in recent days

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Optimism among Newcastle United fans in keeping manager Rafa Benitez has increased in recent days, but Italian outlet CalcioMercato may worry Toon supporters by claiming they have checked out a new manager.

A reportedly impending takeover has been suggested, with the potential new owners said to want keep Benitez at the helm. But nothing has been confirmed as of yet, with Benitez’s contract expiring at the end of June.

The former Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool boss is said to have been approached by other clubs, including AS Roma and Marseille as per the Chronicle. But he is said to have turned down that chance to stay at Newcastle.

However, a contract is yet to be signed. Now, fans will be more worried with the club said to have checked out Gennaro Gattuso in ‘recent days’, after the Italian legend departed his role as manager of AC Milan.

TBR’s view

Gattuso, 41, has impressed in his early stint as manager of AC Milan, coming within an inch of qualifying for  Champions League football – finishing just a point off of third place, but ultimately sitting in fifth place.

But Newcastle will be desperate to keep Benitez at the helm and the chances of that are looking more likely, given the impending takeover. But the longer it goes on without being confirmed, the less likely Benitez will remain.

Gattuso could be a strong replacement, but Newcastle fans will prefer to keep Benitez.