Newcastle United 'close to Director of Football appointment'

Newcastle United have reportedly come close to appointing a new director of football at St. James' Park.

Following their takeover of the club earlier in October, the Saudi Public Investment Fund have been keen to create a new role to oversee the football side of the club, and they have now narrowed down their search.

According to The Boot Room, the Magpies have identified Marc Overmars, Ralf Rangnick, Paul Mitchell and Luis Campos as possible candidates, although Ajax director Overmars is said to have doubts over a switch.

He was said to be targeted alongside Ajax manager Erik ten Hag in a double swoop, but the pair are now said to be questioning the move to a Premier League relegation battle.

Such news leaves three likely candidates, with former RB Leipzig chief and current Lokomotiv Moscow director Rangnick expected to be the prime candidate for the wealthy new owners.