Rafael Benitez 'wanted by Zenit St Petersburg'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 20 May 2018

Russian outfit Zenit St Petersburg are reportedly monitoring Rafael Benitez's situation at Newcastle United as they look for a replacement for Roberto Mancini.

Russian Premier League side Zenit St Petersburg are reportedly considering an approach for Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez.

Zenit are on the lookout for a new head coach following the departure of Roberto Mancini, who was unveiled as the new Italy manager earlier this week.

Benitez's future at Newcastle continues to be uncertain, meanwhile, with the Spaniard seeing assurances that owner Mike Ashley will back him with significant funds in the summer transfer market.

Chronicle Live reports that Zenit are monitoring the situation at St James' Park and could attempt to use the promise of a hefty transfer kitty to lure Benitez to Russia.

Benitez's preference is to stay at Newcastle, but he has clashed with Ashley over transfers in the past and could walk out if he is unable to conduct a rebuild of his squad this summer.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss had previously been linked with West Ham United, but the Hammers are now expected to appoint Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager.