Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has reportedly informed West Ham United that he will only consider joining the club if his transfer terms are fulfilled.
The Hammers are understood to be keen on appointing the 58-year-old as David Moyes's successor following his impressive work at St James' Park on a small budget.
Benitez has not ruled out jumping ship but, according to The Express, he has asked for a £100m budget and total control over all transfer activity, which proved a problem for the recently-departed Moyes.
West Ham are willing to meet the £6m buyout clause in the Spaniard's contract and are encouraged by initial discussions with his camp.
Newcastle have not yet given up hope of keeping Benitez in place on Tyneside, though, with owner Mike Ashley publicly thanking the former Real Madrid chief for his work this season in guiding the Magpies to a 10th-placed finish.
Written by
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
