Newcastle United could look to appoint Gennaro Gattuso on a short-term contract, according to Italian journalist Fabio Santini. 

The lowdown

Gattuso has been out of work since June, when he unexpectedly left Fiorentina just 23 days after taking up the post.

Shortly before that, he'd parted ways with Napoli after failing to secure Champions League qualification.

He took charge of Gli Azzurri 81 times, overseeing 47 wins (58%), 12 draws and 22 defeats.

Gattuso has also managed AC Milan, where he of course spent 13 years of his playing career and won all ten of his senior club trophies.

The Italian held hugely controversial talks with Tottenham Hotspur over the summer as the North London outfit searched for a permanent successor to Jose Mourinho.

But Spurs decided against the appointment amid a 'huge backlash' from fans, who pointed to comments Gattuso had made about women in football, same-sex marriage and race (via The Athletic).

The latest

Speaking on Il Processo, as quoted by Sport Witness, Santini said there's now a possibility that Gattuso will take the reins.

He'd apparently be willing to sign a deal that only lasts until the summer.

"Attention: there is a sensational twist for what concerns Gennaro Gattuso," he said. "The coach could land in the Premier League, at Newcastle.

"The Calabrian coach would also accept a fixed term contract until the end of the current football season."

The verdict: Too controversial

If Newcastle were to opt for a short-term hire, then you'd think they'd go for Graeme Jones, who's already being tasked with steadying the ship. Alternatively, they could hire a Premier League survival specialist.

While Gattuso may be interested in the role, perhaps believing he could secure it long-term if he impresses straight away, it's hard to see this one coming to pass, particularly in light of what happened with the links to Tottenham.

In other news, this renowned sporting director is keen on taking over at Newcastle.