Newcastle United’s sporting director search – who is the favourite to replace Dan Ashworth?

Newcastle United are searching for a new sporting director, after Dan Ashworth was placed on gardening leave whilst the club try to agree on compensation fees with Manchester United.

According to reports, the current favourite for the role is Crystal Palace’s, Dougie Freedman. The 49-year-old Scotsman is said to be keen on the role and has reportedly impressed The Magpies hierarchy during the interviewing process.

Freedman’s track record of signings for Crystal Palace has been impressive, making signings particularly from The Championship and Ligue 1.

Also, he was said to be heavily involved in the club’s appointment of current manager Oliver Glasner – who has been very impressive so far and somewhat of a coup for The Eagles given he recently won a Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt.

His signings such as Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise, Adam Wharton and Marc Guehi had all had very impressive spells in the EFL and have blossomed into regulars for Palace.

This crop of young talent aligns with the type of signings that Newcastle is also trying to recruit, as well as his experience in the role at a Premier League club being an attractive asset.

Other sporting directors have been touted, such as ex-Roma director Tiago Pinto and 777’s global sporting director, Johannes Spors – who has also been involved in their multi-club model which is an avenue The Magpies could potentially explore in the future.