Rafael Benitez 'interested in West Ham United job offer'

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez is reportedly giving serious consideration to jumping ship and joining Premier League rivals West Ham United.

The 58-year-old worked wonders at St James' Park this season on a limited budget, guiding the Magpies to a top-half finish on their return to the top flight.

Benitez has made clear that he is unhappy with the lack of financial support from owner Mike Ashley, who has publicly pleaded with the Spaniard to stay on for another season.

After confirming on Wednesday afternoon that David Moyes's short-term deal will not be extended, West Ham are rumoured to have placed the former Real Madrid chief at the top of their four-man shortlist.

According to the London Evening Standard, the Hammers have a good chance of landing their number-one target if they get the terms of the deal right, which would include paying off £6m in compensation.

Zenit St Petersburg are understood to have made contact with Benitez, but he would prefer to stay in English football and has previously held talks with West Ham prior to becoming Madrid manager in 2015.