RAFA BENITEZ could be heading out of the Newcastle United exit door for the fortunes of the Chinese Super League.
The Spaniard has less than two weeks left on his deal at St James’ Park with his future remaining unclear.
The 59-year-old’s departure would come as a major blow to the Toon Army, who idolise the ex-Liverpool and Real Madrid chief.
But with the Bin Zayed Group’s takeover of Newcastle still on track, there would be plenty of cash available to attract a top replacement.
Here are five men multi-billionaire Sheikh Khaled could turn to if Rafa goes:
Mourinho has been out of work since he was sacked by Manchester United in December and has already been linked with the Toon this summer.
And after previously working with Sir Bobby Robson at Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona, he has previously spoken of his fondness for the North East club.
He said: “I like to go there. I like the feeling of going to Mr Robson’s home. I like that feeling. I like the stadium. I like the atmosphere.
“They are a good, enthusiastic crowd. I like the Geordies.”
The Frenchman has been out of work since leaving Arsenal a year ago.
Wenger has been linked with a number of jobs over the past 12 months, but the 69-year-old has yet to find one to tempt him back into the dug-out.
But he has also been vocal about not working for another English club after his over two-decade reign at the Gunners.
And despite a vast array of potential transfer funds, it would probably take some huge persuasion to lure him to the Toon.
The Italian already has an impressive record with a team in black and white and his arrival would certainly help ease the pain of losing Rafa.
But the recently-departed Juventus chief is already believed to have rejected an approach from Chelsea.
And a lack of Champions League football on offer at the Magpies would probably prevent them from luring the 51-year-old to Tyneside.
Although he has been having English lessons…
Another Italian who has also been linked with the job already.
Gattuso, 41, left AC Milan last month and Italian media have suggested Newcastle could be his next destination.
However, a number of outlets close to the club denied any truth in those claims.
Pep Guardiola’s trusted Manchester City assistant was strongly linked with replacing Wenger at Arsenal.
The Spaniard, 37, is one of the most sought-after coaches on the Continent and it appears only a matter of time before he flies the nest from under Pep.
And he could emerge as the ideal candidate to lead a potentially exciting new era at Newcastle if the takeover is completed.
