Former Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has not been approached by Mike Ashley to return to Tyneside.
Chronicle Live understands that there is no truth in suggestions - via Transfer Window podcast - that the Sports Direct tycoon has contacted Benitez to come back.
Benitez is available again after leaving Dalian Pro in China last month, and while he has not ruled out a return one day - perhaps under new owners - there is no offer on the table as it stands.
As reported by Chronicle Live this week, Ashley is eager to stick with Steve Bruce and allow him to gel with new first-team coach Graeme Jones in the last 14 games.
We have learned that Ashley is currently in the United Arab Emirates and is believed to be exploring business opportunities, meeting with some high profile figures in the Middle East in recent times.
Ashley is being guided by managing director Lee Charnley and close aide Justin Barnes on events back home, and the duo are content with recent form after two victories in the Premier League against Everton and Southampton.
By the same token, Bruce knows that results must continue to improve and the threat of relegation needs to be extinguished as quickly as possible.
