Rafa Benitez reveals what it would take to keep him at Newcastle until 2028

Benitez has just over a year left on his contract at St James’s Park.

And the 57-year-old will sit down with owner Mike Ashley in the summer for talks over his and the club’s future.

Benitez was looking for a “project” when he joined United just over two years ago – and he’s keen to see it through.

Asked if he could see himself being at Newcastle for the next 10 years, Benitez said: “Yes. What I say is you need a project.

“I like to work with young players, I like to improve young players, but I like to win. I want to be competitive, and I want to win.

“You have to have a mix of young players and players with experience.

“That means you have to spend some money, because if not, you cannot compete now and win something.”

Meanwhile, Jamaal Lascelles says Benitez is a “special manager”.

“Rafa’s always calm,” said the defender. “You might see him sweating on the sidelines, but inside, I can guarantee he will be the calmest man in the stadium.

“He’s been there in these tense situations so many times before.

“He’s managed in big European finals in the Champions League and Europa League, so he knows what he’s doing.

“He is definitely, definitely a special manager.”