Newcastle United were able to keep hold of manager Rafa Benitez over the summer thanks to a buyout clause in his contract.

West Ham United and Leicester City both made tentative approaches to Benitez earlier in the summer, while the Newcastle boss was initially named on Spain's shortlist to take over the national-team job after the World Cup before they appointed Luis Enrique on Monday.

El Confidencial says a £6m compensation clause scared off all suitors, despite Benitez stalling on talks over a new deal with the Toon.

It's also revealed RFEF president Luis Rubiales had wanted to appoint Benitez before the World Cup following the dismissal of Julen Lopetegui. But Benitez was unable to accept the offer as he needed to discuss the situation with Newcastle - and the delay ensured Fernando Hierro was instead appointed as interim head coach.