Benitez wanted by Celtic

Newcastle United chiefs are keen to resolve Rafa Benitez’s contract extension quickly in order to remove the veil of uncertainty at St James’ Park at the moment.

United and Benitez did not hold any discussions on Monday as both parties took a day to gather their thoughts after the 4-0 win at Fulham .

But with the transfer window opening tomorrow, United’s top brass know they can’t afford to waste much more time on the recruitment front given that deadline day comes on August 8 this year.

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Benitez is keen to stay on as boss but hopes that the club are receptive to his ideas for the new season.

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The former Real Madrid and Liverpool boss will give Mike Ashley every chance to keep him at Newcastle .

The Toon manager has been heavily linked with the Celtic job again in the last 24 hours but United have made extending Benitez’s deal their priority.

Reports in Scotland this morning have suggested that Benitez is the favourite to replace Neil Lennon at Parkhead but Benitez will meet with United officials this week to open talks on his contract.

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Benitez said: “It’s very easy.

“I can see the potential of this massive club and hopefully we can do things in a way that will be good for everyone to move forward, maybe together.

“At the moment, it’s just keep talking and see what happens next week.”