Rafael Benitez has hinted towards extending his stay at Newcastle United if he gets the backing to keep the club in the Premier League.

The Spaniard joined the Magpies in March 2016 and, despite failing to keep the side in the top flight, secured an immediate return from the Championship the following season.

Newcastle are now understood to be keen to tie their popular manager down to a new contract after initially landing him on a three-year deal.

Asked whether he would seek to delay any talks with owner Mike Ashley until the end of the season, Benitez told talkSPORT: "I don't have any problem with my future. I'm really pleased here and I love the city, the fans, the potential, everything.

"When I decided to come I had the same feeling. Obviously I have more information now, it's just a question of doing what we have to do. It's just to ensure the team is doing well.

"For me it is not an issue. I have to make sure we are doing things in the right way, and if we have this common idea and we are on the same page then I am not worried about that.

"We have to be sure we stay in the Premier League. Then this conversation will be easier. I told Mike what I thought, and what I think, about that. He knows my opinion and we don't have to talk now."

Newcastle currently sit 15th in the table.