'Not the right choice' - Rafa Benitez urged to snub Everton offer - and wait for Newcastle United approach

The Toffees board has pushed ahead with plans to appoint the Spaniard, despite a strong objection from its supporters given his connection to city rivals Liverpool.

Banners were seen outside of Goodison Park in protest, which had suggested a move for Benitez would stall.

However, Sky Sports understands key aspects of the contract have been agreed and the 61-year-old is expected to put pen to paper in the coming days.

Since leaving Chinese Super League side Dalian Pro in January, Benitez has spoken of his desire to manage in the Premier League again.

Newcastle fans had hoped he would one day return to St James’s Park, particularly if the Amanda Staveley-brokered takeover is approved.

He was the owners-in-waiting's first choice for the managerial position on Tyneside after helping to bring Staveley and co to the table.

Indeed, former Sheffield United and Leeds goalkeeper Paddy Kenny believes Benitez was better off waiting for an offer to re-join the Magpies, rather than accept the Everton job.

He told Football Insider: “It wouldn’t be the right choice at all, for me.

"It makes more sense to hold out and go to Newcastle over Everton.

“If they do get a takeover, that club will go places because it’s a massive club with passionate fans.

“I’m sure he’d do well at Newcastle again and there wouldn’t be all this hoo-ha about the fans protesting.

“Why have that cloud over you when you’ve got the chance to go to somewhere like Newcastle?”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor