Benitez has even begun to discuss potential transfer targets following a further round of discussions with managing director Lee Charnley on Monday and a budget for recruitment is likely to be finalised in the next few days.

Benitez will want to make sure everything he has been promised is guaranteed in writing, but sources close to the discussions have indicated it has been overwhelmingly positive on both sides of the negotiating table.

The speed with which a conclusion to the talks is approaching has surprised those involved, but Benitez’s decision to stay on as manager could even be confirmed by the weekend.