Reports from a variety of outlets are indicating Everton are close to appointing Rafael Benitez as the manager heading into the 2021-2022 season.

Benitez was most recently with Chinese club, Dalian Yifang, but is more notable to fans for his time with Newcastle United and the Premier League.

Everton has been looking for a replacement for Carlo Ancelotti after he left the club a couple of weeks back.

One report did suggest that Roberto Martinez of Belgium may also be in the running for this position; he’s open to returning to the club he became so familiar with between 2013-2016.

Some fans have spoken out against this potential signing, given the rivalry between Everton and Liverpool.

Benitez managed Liverpool for six years, and once referred to Everton as a “small club,” way back in 2007.

Moshiri is used to disappointing fans, though, considering the criticism the club faced after selecting Sam Allardyce in November 2017.

Prior to this, Everton was also tied to Nuno Espirito Santo.

Benitez initially joined Newcastle in 2016 when he managed their relegation from top-flight action.

He did lead them back to the Premier league the following season, promoted as the Championship title winners. He finished No. 10 and No. 13, respectively, in the two seasons with Newcastle thereafter.

Everton took 15 days total to appoint their last two managers; Ancelotti left the club on June 1, so the decision is expected shortly.