Report: Newcastle plot final attempt to convince Benitez to stay

Newcastle United are reportedly preparing one final offer to Rafael Benitez in an attempt to convince him to stay at St James' Park.

The Spanish manager appears increasingly likely to end three-and-a-half years with the Magpies when his contract expires on June 30. The Telegraph's Luke Edwards understands he is reluctant to ink a new deal, unhappy with the personal terms and the size of his transfer kitty.

Benitez, 59, has apparently been offered various deals from the club over the past 18 months, but none that have encouraged the former Liverpool boss to sign fresh paperwork. It's believed his uncertain future has attracted several lucrative offers from the Chinese Super League.

The Tyneside outfit has currently promised Benitez a £60-million spending budget in the summer window, and he can lift that amount with player sales. He is, however, encouraged to defer from purchasing players over the age of 28.

Benitez is yet to notify anyone at Newcastle of his intentions. The Magpies were in takeover talks with a Dubai consortium in May, but the club seems to be in limbo until Mike Ashley's sale is rubber-stamped and Benitez makes a decision on his future.