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Ian Johnson

Next NUFC boss: Bookies reveal who punters have backed - with big bets going on TWO names

Gamblers are backing Jose Mourinho to become Newcastle United's next manager. 

The former Chelsea boss is the current bookies favourite to replace Rafa Benitez.

And bookmaker William Hill's revealed a quarter of all cash is going on Jose - with one punter staking £200 on him getting the job.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 13: Jose Mourinho is seen in the stands prior to the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Everton FC at Craven Cottage on April 13, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Getty Images)

Mourinho has long spoke of his affection for NUFC, having worked under Toon legend Bobby Robson at Barcelona.

He was mooted as a possible Rafa replacement should the Bin Zayed group buy the club from Mike Ashley. 

Fans protest outside Newcastle United's St James's Park after Rafa's exit

"Jose Mourinho has attracted the most bets – 16% of all bets and 25% of all stakes," revealed a William Hill spokesman. 

"The two strangest outsiders that we have seen backed have been Sean Dyche, backed in from 33/1 to 8/1 while Roy Keane has halved from 50/1 to 25/1."

Footy hardman Vinnie Jones recently backed Keane - a former Sunderland AFC boss - for the job.

Vinnie Jones (left) and Roy Keane (Terry Blackburn/PA Wire)

But Jose isn't the only manager to appeal to punters.

Rival bookie Ladbrokes say it's received a flurry of bets on Arsene Wenger for the job.

But another candidate with close ties to the former Arsenal gaffer has also caught punters' eyes.

Current Man City assistant Mikel Arteta played under Wenger at Arsenal and he's attracted at least big bet.

Mikel Arteta of Arsenal (2014 Getty Images)

"The two biggest bets have been £200 each on Mourinho yesterday at 4/1 and Arteta today at 8/1," confirmed the William Hill spokesperson.

But one name that doesn't seem to be wooing customers is Gary Monk.

Installed as an early favourite even ahead of Rafa announcing his departure, the ex- Swansea gaffer's odds have drifted as bigger names are mentioned to replace the beloved Spaniard.

And instead it's Champions  League winner Mourinho - nicknamed 'The Special One' - who is the favourite with those fancying a flutter.

"Jose Mourinho is by far the most popular pick with punters at this point," said a Ladbrokes spokesperson.

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