Taking to Twitter, The Daily Mail reporter Craig Hope has made a Newcastle United managerial claim involving former Premier League boss Roberto Martinez.

The Lowdown: Martinez eyeing role...

Amid the continued reports revolving around Paulo Fonseca, who appears the favourite for the job as it stands, some other sources have suggested that he is far from definite despite PIF chief Amanda Staveley personally preferring him (The Telegraph).

One of those is Hope, who reported that the 48-year-old isn't a foregone conclusion and there are still many contenders for the Magpies hot seat after Steve Bruce's sacking.

The Daily Mail journalist has also reported before that Martinez is 'interested' in taking the job at Newcastle as he shares another update on the Belgium boss.

The Latest: Hope makes Martinez claim...

Taking to social media, Hope has reiterated that Fonseca isn't a guarantee for the St James' Park role, despite odds suggesting that it is a foregone conclusion.

Indeed, according to his information, a few serious contenders could emerge 'in the coming week', with one of them being Martinez, who has won silverware in England.

As well as the 48-year-old former Everton boss, both Lucien Favre or Unai Emery could also be serious candidates.

The Verdict: Underrated option?

Having overseen Belgium on the biggest stages in international football whilst working with truly elite players, Martinez could come as a very underrated option for the Newcastle job.

His open, attack-minded style of football could be a joy to watch if given the right backing by PIF - certainly in stark contrast to the Bruce era.

Lauded as a 'world class' manager by fellow ex-Premier League coach Alex McLeish, his possible appointment certainly shouldn't be dismissed out of hand by the Toon Army.

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