Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is wanted back in Spain at Real Sociedad.

The Mirror says the Basque club, currently just 15th in Spain's 20-team top flight but safe from relegation, hope to convince the Newcastle boss to come home and lead them up the table.

Their interest is likely to strengthen Benitez's hand this summer as he pushes for the finances to make his Magpies more competitive in the Premier League.

The former Liverpool and Chelsea chief has already started manoeuvring for transfer cash, insisting that the acquisition of players to plug gaps in his squad during the winter window is the reason behind their improved form since the turn of the year.