Real Madrid have reportedly decided to place Zinedine Zidane in interim charge of the first team as soon as news of Rafael Benitez's sacking has been confirmed.

Widespread reports in Spain this afternoon have claimed that Benitez will be relieved of duties at the Bernabeu in the near future.

It is believed that the Madrid board have grown frustrated by the team's playing style under the 55-year-old's guidance, with last night's 2-2 draw away at Valencia said to be the final straw.

According to AS, the club's former playmaker Zidane will be elevated from his position as the head coach of the club's second-string side while a replacement for Benitez is identified.

The report adds that Zidane will be assisted by another ex-Madrid player - Argentine forward Santiago Solari.

Zidane, 43, is the current odds-on favourite with the bookmakers to be given the responsibility on a permanent basis, while Jose Mourinho is a 10/3 shot.