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The future of current Foxes manager Claude Puel is in serious doubt following reports of dressing room unrest – and their 5-0 hammering by Crystal Palace.

Spaniard Benitez, 58, has been hailed as a hero for keeping the Magpies in the Premier League this season, despite operating on a shoestring budget.

But though the Toon fans love him – and he is keen to stay at St James’ Park – Benitez said last week he needs greater financial clout in the transfer market.

And with Newcastle owner Mike Ashley still trying to sell the club, it could be hard for Benitez to turn down a move to the ambitious Foxes.

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Ashley wants a reported £350m to let Newcastle go – but with offers of that size thin on the ground, Benitez is currently in limbo as to his future.

That leaves the door open for Leicester to enter the race for the ex-Liverpool, Valencia, Inter and Real Madrid coach.

Leicester’s Thai owners, having seen the club lift the Premier League in 2016, now want regular top-six finishes.

(Image: GETTY)

They are renowned for being ruthless, having sacked title-winner Claudio Ranieri and his replacement Craig Shakespeare.

Although Puel had a decent start at the King Power, the last couple of months have been fraught with growing tension among the squad.