Keith Downie reports that the deal to keep Rafael Benitez as Newcastle manager is close to being finalised. Keith Downie reports that the deal to keep Rafael Benitez as Newcastle manager is close to being finalised.

Newcastle United remain in advanced talks with Rafa Benitez over plans to extend his stay as manager, Sky sources understand.

Benitez has held two meetings with Newcastle owner Mike Ashley to iron out the finer details of his proposed contract at the club.

The first was in the manager's office at St James' Park immediately after the 5-1 win over Tottenham on the final day of the Premier League season and the second was at the Shirebrook head office of Ashley's Sports Direct business.

There is understood to be a willingness by both parties to see Benitez remain as manager but the Spaniard wants assurances in writing that he will have full control over transfers and that there will be money to spend in the next two transfer windows.

It is believed Benitez will also want to overhaul the scouting system at Newcastle, which could throw into doubt the future of Newcastle's long-standing chief scout, Graham Carr.

On Saturday, Benitez said he wanted two weeks to weigh up his decision and although there is now an urgency to get the deal done, it may be next week before the contract is signed.