Report: Rafael Benitez turns down West Ham United to take over at Real Madrid

West Ham United have apparently been dealt a major blow by the news that Rafael Benitez will not take over as manager.

Current manager Sam Allardyce is expected to leave at the end of the season as his contract comes to an end, and Benitez had been linked to the post along with former Manchester United boss David Moyes.

The Telegraph reports that the Hammers had expected to announce Benitez as Allardyce's successor on Tuesday, but the Spaniard pulled out at the last minute.

They suggest that Benitez has been offered the chance to take over at Real Madrid, and immediately told the East Londoners that he wishes to move to La Liga.

The Hammers finish their season away at Newcastle United tomorrow.