Newcastle make contact with Roberto Martinez as hunt to replace Rafa Benitez steps up

NEWCASTLE have made contact with Roberto Martinez as they step up their search for Rafa Benitez’s replacement.

SunSport revealed last night that the Toon were interested in speaking to the Belgium boss.

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And intermediaries of Martinez have now been sounded out by Newcastle chiefs.

An official approach has not yet been made to the Belgian FA - but it could come soon.

Martinez, 45, last month insisted he would stay with the Red Devils until Euro 2020.

BELGIUM FEAR THE WORST

But the Spaniard has never hidden his desire to return to work in the Premier League.

And the lure of a club the size of Newcastle could prove too much for Martinez, who has not worked in England since he was sacked by Everton in May 2016.

Martinez led the Red Devils to third place at the World Cup and his deal runs until the end of Euro 2020 — but Belgian FA sources “fear the worst” over a battle for the ex-Everton chief.

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Martinez’s reputation was built on success with style at Swansea, then a stunning FA Cup triumph with Wigan in 2013.

Ashley is determined to land a boss with experience of playing or coaching in the Prem.

The Toon also like Manchester City No2 Mikel Arteta but he may be harder to prise away from the Etihad.