Newcastle United remain patient over manager Rafa Benitez's contract stand-off.

The Evening Chronicle says the Toon remain willing to give Benitez as long as necessary to sign a new contract - although there is an acceptance that a firm decision is required either way soon.

The 59-year-old is now into the final two weeks of his current contract and has, as of yet, opted against signing the extension which has been offered to him.

Although Benitez returned to the club's Benton Training Centre last Monday, he has not given the Magpies hierarchy any indication as to whether he is willing to sign the deal for the terms currently on offer.

It is understood that he is still yet to receive the assurances over budget and transfer policy he wants in order to commit himself to the club, while the uncertainty over a potential takeover has also complicated matters further.