Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez is in the dark over his future and takeover talks, it has been claimed.

The Spaniard is out of contract this summer and his future remains uncertain given Toon's mooted takeover from an Abu Dhabi billionaire.

ITV journalist Peter A Smith says Benitez told him about his situation at St. James' Park, while acknowledging Celtic's interest in his services.

He wrote: “Interesting chat with Rafa Benitez. He's still in the dark about his future at Newcastle & any takeover bid.

“Also told me he consulted his friend Frank McParland (ex-Rangers scout) about the prospect of the Celtic job. He decided against for now, but would consider it in future."

Interesting chat with Rafa Benitez. He's still in the dark about his future at Newcastle & any takeover bid. Also told me he consulted his friend Frank McParland (ex-Rangers scout) about the prospect of the Celtic job. He decided against for now, but would consider it in future. pic.twitter.com/MiTJqZ18Fy
— Peter A Smith (@PeterAdamSmith) June 2, 2019