Premier League match ball. (Photo by Phil Noble - Pool/Getty Images)Premier League match ball. (Photo by Phil Noble - Pool/Getty Images)
Premier League match ball. (Photo by Phil Noble - Pool/Getty Images)

Newcastle United transfer news: Player on brink of exit, Rafa Benitez names 'priority' destination for next job

Former Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is keen to secure a return to Premier League football in his next managerial role.

The Spaniard enjoyed a positive spell on Tyneside, and won almost universal adoration from the club’s fanbase during his time at St. James’ Park after leading the Magpies back to the top flight from the Championship.

Benitez left the club at the end of the 2018/19 campaign before taking up a role with Chinese outfit Dalian Professional.

The 60-year-old left that position in January, and has been out of work ever since.

But it would appear that he is intent on making a comeback in England.

Speaking to Spanish publication Marca, he said: “I've already received more than one offer in the last few months, but it wasn't the right time or project. I needed to spend time with my family.

“I want to find a club with ambition, one either competing for titles or looking for a serious project that will lead to that later.

“I always say that the key to success is balance - both on the pitch between defence and attack, but also in the management of the club.”

He added: “My experiences with Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle have all been very enjoyable and for that reason my priority is the Premier League.

“My family are in England and it's the most complete league, but I can't rule out leaving. As I said, if there's a well-defined project with objectives…”

Benitez averaged 1.48 points per game over 146 matches in the dugout for the Toon Army.

Elsewhere, Newcastle look to be on the verge of offloading midfielder Kyle Scott.

The 23-year-old joined the Magpies on a free transfer in 2019, but is still waiting on a first team debut in the north east.

The former Chelsea man is out of contract at St. James’ Park at the end of the season, and with no offer an extension forthcoming, MLS side FC Cincinnati are said to be circling.

According to Football Insider, the American club, managed by Jaap Stam, have already offered Scott a deal, and are eager to wrap up a switch in the coming days.

We’ve gathered the rest of today's Premier League transfer speculation below: