Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier is wanted back in his native France.
The People says Houllier has been told a job is waiting for him at the France Football Federation, possibly even the role of technical director he left in September, if he walks away from - or is pushed out of the West Midlands club.
And if he or club owner Randy Lerner decide it is time for a parting of the ways then Benitez, 50, would top a shortlist of alternatives which includes Allardyce, Mark Hughes and Villa coach Kevin MacDonald.
Benitez has been sounded out about several jobs, particularly in Spain, since leaving Inter Milan, but he wants a return to the Premier League after being shown the door by Liverpool less than 12 months ago.
