AC Milan manager Gennaro Gattuso has dismissed reports that he could be set to join Newcastle, calling them ‘unfounded’.
Reports in Italy surfaced this week that Gattuso had been in talks to replace Rafael Benitez at St James’ Park, with the Spaniard’s contract set to expire at the end of the season.
Benitez – who recently revealed his Champions League ambitions – is stalling on signing a new deal as he awaits assurances over the club’s ambition, with Gattuso being discussed as a possible replacement.
According to reports in Italy, Gattuso recently met with super-agent Jorge Mendes to discuss his future, with a move to Newcastle having supposedly been discussed.
Gattuso, who spent one full season as a player with Rangers, has been in charge of AC Milan since 2017 following previous spells in charge of the likes of Palermo and Swiss side Sion.
Milan currently sit 4th in Serie A and face a battle to reach next season’s Champions League, however, the former midfielder has insisted that his meeting with Mendes had nothing to do with a move to St. James Park.
“We often see each other, I like good food and to talk about football,” Gattuso said.
“Newcastle? [They are] Unfounded rumours.
“I repeat, with Mendes, it is just a great friendship.”
Read: PFA Team of the Year announced
See also: Six youngsters who made the breakthrough this season
Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to The Football Faithful podcast on iTunes, Spotify or Soundcloud.
