Newcastle United takeover & transfer news: New boss favourite plus intriguing director of football link

Tottenham Hotspur's Argentinian head coach Mauricio Pochettino gestures during the English Premier League football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Sheffield United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, on November 9, 2019.

According to Sky, Pochettino, who remains on ‘gardening leave’ at the London Stadium, could be offered a deal totalling £19million-per-season to replace current manager Steve Bruce, who is likely to be shown the door after just one campaign on his native Tyneside.

The bookies odds on the next NUFC manager including Jorge Jesus and Max Allegri

Pochettino would not command a fee to release him from his Spurs deal, which is reportedly dwarfed by the £15million earned by replacement Jose Mourinho.

Should United land their man he would become the highest paid manager in the Premier League and the third highest in world football.

Reports suggest, however, that should the Magpies be unable to land Pochettino. Benitez is being considered as a back-up.

The Spaniard, who quit St James’s Park last summer, is believed to have a £20million buy-out clause in his contract with Chinese side Dalian Pro.

Meanwhile, a former Newcastle United scout has been linked with a return to the club as director of football.

Reports in Spain suggest Pablo Longoria, who worked at United in 2007, is being eyed for a role. He is a former chief scout at Juventus.

Kevin Keegan has also been linked with a return to Newcastle in an ambassadorial role. It is 24 years to the day since his infamous ‘love it’ rant – try our Special K quiz here.