Sources: Rafael Benitez close to agreeing deal after Nottingham Forest development

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Credit: Getty/Imago Sun 19 October 2025 8:09, UK Rafael Benitez is on the brink of a return to management as he closes in on an agreement with Greek giants Panathinaikos, sources have told Football Insider.The 65-year-old was considered for the Nottingham Forest job during the recent international break.But Panathinaikos have seized upon Benitez’s availability, as exclusively revealed by Football Insider eight days ago, and are in advanced talks over a deal.It will be the Spaniard’s first role since leaving Celta Vigo in 2024, where he spent just nine months in charge before being dismissed.Credit: GettyRafael Benitez’s contract terms revealedThe former Liverpool, Newcastle, Chelsea and Everton boss has been offered a two-and-a-half-year deal by the Greek outfit.Benitez was recently spotted sitting next to Forest supremo Evangelos Marinakis, who also owns Panathinaikos’ rivals Olympiacos.Marinakis and the Spaniard watched the Greek giants lose 2-0 to Arsenal at Emirates Stadium earlier this month. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Olympiacos are currently top of the Super League in Greece, eight points clear of Panathinaikos.Nottingham Forest to explore Brendan Rodgers dealMeanwhile, Brendan Rodgers is emerging as a shock new candidate for the Nottingham Forest manager’s post, sources have told Football Insider.Credit: ImagoThe Celtic boss is out of contract at the end of the season and talks over an extension have reached a stalemate.Rodgers, 52, is expected to be sounded out by Forest as they weigh up the contenders to replace Ange Postecoglou.Over the last few months, Rodgers has been growing frustrated at Celtic due to the lack of transfer spending by the board, which could increase the likelihood that he leaves the Glasgow giants.For more Nottingham Forest and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.