Magpies linked with Racing coach

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Reports in Spain claim that Newcastle are sounding out Racing Santander coach Marcelino.

The highly-rated coach, not to be confused with the Spanish central defender who had an ill-fated spell at St James' Park in the 1990s, has turned Racing into top-four contenders in Spain.

Before that he had masterminded Recreativo de Huelva's promotion to La Liga and he is now the latest Spaniard coach being linked with a move to England, following on from the successes of Rafa Benitez and Juande Ramos.

Ramos' move to Spurs was masterminded by Tony Jimenez - now vice-president at Newcastle.

Jimenez, although not an agent, is known around Europe as one of the men who can get any deal done and his contacts list is extensive.

Part of his remit has obviously been to cast an eye over potential new coaches, should Kevin Keegan's reign come to a premature end.

And Spanish-speaking Jimenez has seemingly ventured into a market he knows well - La Liga.

Reports suggest that there has been tentative contact between Newcastle and Marcelino's people - although nothing official.

Racing stay

Racing, though, are determined not to lose another coach after they saw Miguel Angel Portugal depart for Real Madrid last year.

Should Racing qualify for the UEFA Champions League then there is little doubt in Spain Marcelino would remain, although his stock is rising and his abilities are coming to the attention of a host of teams.

As well as Newcastle, Sevilla are also believed to have made discreet enquires, although they now look set to stick with Manolo Jimenez for next season.