Rafael Benitez is reportedly keen on a return to Newcastle United as manager if a Saudi Arabian-backed £300 million takeover goes through. Benitez left Newcastle at the end of last season to join Chinese club Dalian Professional after his contract expired at St James’ Park. The Spaniard wants to make Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley one of his first signings if he rejoins the Magpies. Barkley has struggled with injuries this season and the Chelsea midfielder even admitted earlier this year that he has been forced to train using only his left foot.
Benitez said: “I had fine chips on two parts of my bone in my foot so it was really painful. I just had to bide my time and keep working hard. I couldn’t really kick the ball with my right foot so I was training with my left. But now I feel good and I am ready to get back in the side.”
