Nice are determined not to lose manager Patrick Vieira.

The Mirror says Vieira is among the names being touted as a possible replacement for Rafa Benitez who is leaving Newcastle today when his contract runs out.

The ex French captain was interviewed by Newcastle four years ago but they opted to appoint Steve McClaren at the time.

Nice are in the middle of a takeover by Britain's richest man Petrochemicals billionaire Jim Ratcliffe who tried earlier this year to buy Chelsea.

Vieira who Nice to seventh place in Ligue 1 last season is understood to be happy in France and Ratcliffe would like him to stay on when he takes over.