Rafa Benitez linked with shock return to Chelsea as Mike Ashey waits on Newcastle United decision

Newcastle United’s manager – who visited the club’s training ground yesterday – is out of contract at St James’s Park on June 30.

Owner Mike Ashley is waiting for Benitez’s decision on a new deal following talks in London last month.

However, Italian outlet Tuttosport claim that Benitez is being lined up to replace Europa League-winner manager Maurizio Sarri, who is expected to take over at Juventus.

Newcastle have made no comment on Benitez’s future.