The move backfired and Hicks broke his silence to admit that Klinsmann had been approached.
A club insider said: "Hicks has been condemned for undermining Benitez, but Gillett contacted Klinsmann. Benitez knows this - and Gillett knows that Benitez knows.
"Hicks was asked about Klinsmann and he answered honestly by admitting Klinsmann had been approached, but the fans have been blaming the wrong owner."