Benitez close to agreeing Newcastle United stay

Former Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez is set to commit his future to Newcastle United for next season, according to reports. 

Newcastle were relegated to the Championship last week and the Spanish boss, who replaced Steve McClaren in March, has been weighing up his next move. 

According to widespread reports, there is a break clause in the three-year contract signed Benitez but Newcastle chiefs are confident of keeping him in the hotseat. 

Talks have taken place between the 56-year-old and club's hierarchy after they bowed out of the top tier. 

Some reports suggest he could even earn up to £5million-a-year if he stays on Tyneside. 

Alternatively, Benitez - who took over Real Madrid last summer - could still be tempted with a move elsewhere, with former club Valencia and Everton linked.