RAFAEL BENITEZ would be keen to keep Vurnon Anita and Yoan Gouffran at Newcastle United beyond this season – if it makes financial sense to do it.

Both players are set to become free agents in the summer and there is known to be interest in the pair from abroad, where they could sign pre-contract agreements already.

At the end of the campaign it would be no surprise if there was contact with English clubs too, given their performances which have helped Newcastle to the top of the Championship.

But Benitez, who is focused on delivering promotion to the Premier League, is still interested in keeping the duo at St James’ Park if the terms of the extension suit everyone.

Gouffran, particularly, has seen his importance to the club increase under the Spanish boss. After a difficult first few years, he has scored seven times to help Newcastle to the top of the table.

Newcastle would be reluctant to hand the 30-year-old a lengthy deal because of his age, and that will be a crucial factor because this could be the last big deal he has to agree during his career.

Initial discussions over a new contract started earlier this year and a return to the Premier League would certainly strengthen Newcastle’s arm financially; even if they are likely to remain firm in the stance over the length of any deal.

Gouffran will make his 100th league start for Newcastle at Birmingham on Saturday if selected and his versatility has seen him play across the forward line this season.

Anita is a couple of years younger than his French team-mate and turns 28 next month. The Dutchman’s professionalism has impressed Benitez since he took over and he has tended to use him as a right-back despite being signed as a midfielder.

Both players were signed on Premier League wages and would be looking for a slight pay increase if promotion is achieved at the end of campaigns when they have played a significant part in the success.

If the duo do commit to new terms then they could be rejoined by goalkeeper Tim Krul.

The 28-year-old is on loan with AZ Alkmaar to get some first team football after recovering from a ligament injury. He appeared in his last Newcastle game in a 6-1 defeat to Manchester City in October 2015.

Krul had been expected to complete a permanent move to Ajax at the end of this season but his loan to the Amsterdam club was cut short because of a lack of football in January.

Krul said: “I’ve been speaking to Rafa Benitez. I’m just getting the minutes and working to get back to my top level. I’m still under contract at Newcastle, so that’s where I’ll go in the summer.”