Rafa Benitez has done a magnificent job at Newcastle United.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss took over at St James' Park in 2016 and guided the Magpies back to the Premier League in his first full season.

Newcastle finished an impressive 10th on their return to the Premier League, despite a net spend of just £11.7m last summer.

Benitez has become a fan favourite on Tyneside and has also won admirers elsewhere.

West Ham United reportedly want the 58-year-old coach to replace David Moyes - although Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has other ideas.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the sportswear tycoon said: "Rafa, as always, has my full support, and contrary to some media reports that portray me as a pantomime villain, I will continue to ensure that every penny generated by the club is available to him.

"I hope very much that Rafa will remain at Newcastle United."

Benitez makes decision

The Telegraph have revealed exactly how Benitez feels about the offer from West Ham.

He could definitely earn a better salary at West Ham and would almost certainly have more to spend on potential signings.

However, Benitez would reportedly prefer to stay at Newcastle - but only if he can get guarantees over his summer transfer budget.

The transfer window opened on May 17 for Premier League clubs.

As per the Telegraph, "Benitez is also seeking reassurances from the sport shop billionaire that he will be able to spend the money when and how he wants, rather than have to wait for weeks for deals to be signed off, which was a cause of tension 12 months ago."

The Telegraph claim Benitez still doesn't know how much money he'll have to spend over the summer - and this has "infuriated" him.

Ashley is reportedly refusing to put in any of his own money and the club won't receive their next chunk of television money until mid-July.

Newcastle have not yet received any contact from West Ham regarding Benitez, who is "growing increasingly exasperated" at the lack of clarity over the transfer budget.

Other clubs have reportedly expressed an interest in his services but anyone who wants to employ Benitez will have to pay £6m in compensation to the Magpies.

Will Benitez end up leaving Newcastle this summer? Let us know what you think by dropping a comment below.