Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has delivered a major Everton revelation, claiming that Everton were not the only club vying for Rafa Benitez’ signature.
The Toffees boss was announced as the club’s new manager on Wednesday, having been pictured arriving at the club’s USM Finch Farm training facility in the morning.
Confirming ahead of the announcement that Benitez had penned a deal lasting up to 2024, the expert claimed that a handful of Italian clubs were also in the race for the ex-Napoli boss.
Twitter: Rafa Benitez finally signs his contract as new Everton manager until June 2024 after two weeks negotiations. He’s b… https://t.co/7aljg6Wrra (@FabrizioRomano)
However, Romano added that Benitez – who lives close to Finch Farm on the Wirral – was prioritising a vacant Premier League role.
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Given Benitez’ experience managing some of Europe’s biggest sides, Italian interest should come as little surprise.
Benitez has managed the likes of Liverpool – where he won the 2005 Champions League – and Chelsea in England, boasting further experience with Real Madrid.
Serie A followers will be familiar with his spell at Napoli between 2013-2015, taking charge for 112 games.
An earlier spell with Inter Milan was less successful, with Benitez surviving in the dugout for just 25 games before an acrimonious exit just before Christmas in 2010.
Much has been published surrounding Benitez’ suitability for the role and some backlash from portions of the Everton faithful, yet Romano’s revelation marks a departure from much of what is being said.
If Benitez is able to swiftly deliver results on Merseyside, the interest elsewhere could render his acquisition as a coup for the club.
