Real Madrid ‘want Arsene Wenger to replace Rafa Benitez’

Spanish giants Real Madrid have included Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger on the shortlist to replace Rafa Benitez at the Bernabeu, according to Marca.

Los Blancos will most likely soon be looking for a 12th permanent manager this century, with the under-fire Spaniard expected to lose his job in the coming weeks.

Real president Florentino Perez is a long-term admirer of French tactician Wenger, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll be able to convince the 66-year-old to leave his long-term role at Emirates Stadium.

Manuel Pellegrini and Jose Mourinho have both been linked with a return to the Bernabeu, while former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is another surprise candidate on Marca’s list.

Wenger, who signed a three-year contract extension in May 2014, is the current longest-serving manager in English football and has previously said he’ll see out his deal which comes to an end in 2017.