Sean Dyche is the new second favourite to become Newcastle’s next manager as bookies drop his price on the day Rafa Benitez leaves St James’ Park.

Newcastle are seeking a new boss after ending their relationship with Benitez, who refused to sign a new contract in the North East.

Mikel Arteta has been the bookies’ favourite to land the vacant managerial position for some time, with the Spaniard currently coaching at Manchester City.

But Burnley boss Dyche has emerged as a new contender for the role, with bookmakers Coral tightening his price from 14/1 (+1400) to just 6/1 (+600).

That puts the 48-year-old level with Roberto Martinez as the joint-second favourite to get the post under owner Mike Ashley.

Newcastle’s preparations for the 2019/20 Premier League season are underway but they appear no closer to appointing a new manager just yet.

Dyche has been at Burnley since 2012 and secured their second promotion to the Premier League in 2016. The Clarets have arguably punched above their weight in England’s top tier, finishing 16th, 7th and 15th in the past three years.

Newcastle relegation worries

Dyche could well be ready to move on from Turf Moor but may find Newcastle a harder task to keep in the Premier League next season.

After all, the Toon’s transfer plans are a mess right now what with no manager in charge.

Benitez was critical of Ashley’s running of the club and it is thought the owner did not want to commit too much cash to transfer spending heading into the new season.

The Magpies broke their transfer record in January with the £20m acquisition of Miguel Almiron. Yet they appear far from threatening that fee this summer and any new manager may only be granted a handful of fresh faces.

Since Benitez’s exit from Newcastle was confirmed on June 24, the Toon’s odds of being relegated this season have fallen from 8/1 (+800) with BetVictor to 5/1 (+500) — a possible sign of worrying days ahead of the Newcastle faithful.

In comparison, Burnley are third favourites for the drop at 2/1 (+200).