Newcastle United could soon have new owners, with Amanda Staveley leading the talks as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund look to seal a £300 million takeover in the coming days.

PIF will acquire an 80% of the club once they become owners, with Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners taking a 10% shareholding while the remaining 10% goes to the Reuben Brothers.

A major squad overhaul is on the cards ahead of the arrival of the prospective new owners, and current boss Steve Bruce is expected to be shown the exit door.

Former Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has been tipped to return once the takeover goes ahead, and Sky Sports’ Keith Downie has claimed it is almost inevitable to see that happening given the Spaniard’s history with Staveley.

“I think it’s almost inevitable that if Amanda Staveley does manage to complete this takeover along Saudi-based consortium, they will go for Rafa Benitez,” the Sky pundit claimed.

“He had close ties with Staveley beforehand. In fact Rafa Benitez was involved when she was brought to meet Mike Ashley for the very first time towards the end of 2017. She was very keen to retain him, and if a takeover goes through, I do think it will be difficult for Rafa Benitez to turn down.

“I’d be surprised if Newcastle United and Amanda Staveley were to go for somebody else other than Rafa Benitez.”

The return of Rafa ⚫⚪

"It's almost inevitable…"