Newcastle United have made it clear that Rafa Benitez is their number 1 choice to manage the club next season.
Public pressure is growing on Tyneside to see the Spaniard remain as boss but the feeling seems to be mutual behind the scenes at Benton.
Toon chiefs - including managing director Lee Charnley - have told Benitez how much he is valued and how they want him to continue with the solid progress carried out so far during his three-year tenure.
Benitez was approached recently to sit down and discuss his extension, but the Sunday Sun understands that it was agreed by all parties that preserving Premier League status had to be the priority.
Relegation would definitely end Benitez's time in charge as he wants to manage at the top level - but he is hopeful that this will be with the Magpies.
It is also believed that owner Mike Ashley would like to see the issue put to bed as soon as possible once United are declared safe in the top-flight.
And while it remains to be seen whether Ashley will take his seat at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow night, the Toon owner has left negotiations to Charnley after agreeing Benitez's basic salary.
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Benitez still wants assurances on transfers but the hierarchy are hoping that the arrival of Miguel Almiron will offer encouragement that another big signing will be coming in this summer.
Another positive sign from Benitez's point of view is that he did not take the opportunity to join Leicester City despite being in the frame.
The Foxes were keen on Benitez but wanted him to quit mid-season and the Toon chief has never broken any contractual agreements in his career.
In the end, Brendan Rodgers walked out on Celtic to make a return to the Premier League and United were spared any embarrassment.
But with players and fans all in agreement that Benitez is the ONLY man for the job, United chiefs know there is a public expectation to get this decision right.
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