Newcastle United may be edging closer to finding a replacement for Dan Ashworth, with a 45-year-old currently in England after being interviewed about the sporting director role at St James’ Park.
Newcastle are going to be one of the fascinating sides to watch this summer. Obviously, expectations that the Magpies would be splashing the cash after their takeover have been wide of the mark.
This season has been a more challenging one for Eddie Howe. And it appears that there is plenty of work to do off the pitch, as well as on it.
Dan Ashworth is currently on gardening leave after deciding that he wants to move to Manchester United. And Newcastle are currently working on finding his replacement.
According to a report from The Times, Newcastle are working with a recruitment company to find Ashworth’s successor.
There is interest in Paul Mitchell, Tim Steidten and Tiago Pinto, according to The Times. But perhaps another top target is emerging in the form of Rui Pedro Braz.
Rui Pedro Braz interviewed for Newcastle sporting director role
The Times claims that Rui Pedro Braz has been in England during the international break, and has been interviewed for the Newcastle post.
Braz is currently sports director at Benfica. And he has overseen a title win during his time at Estádio da Luz, with the club clinching their first league crown in four years in 2023.
The Times notes that Braz oversaw the sales of Darwin Nunez and Enzo Fernandez to Liverpool and Chelsea respectively.
That may be particularly significant as Newcastle may be in a position where they need to move on one of their star players this summer.
Dan Ashworth’s successor has tough task on their hands
Liverpool have their eye on Bruno Guimaraes. Meanwhile, Arsenal want Alexander Isak.
Obviously, Newcastle would hope to keep all of their best players. However, if they are going to have to sell someone to move forward, then they are going to want to secure the very best price.
Nunez and Fernandez meanwhile, are two of a number of players who have moved on to the bigger stages from the Portuguese top flight in recent years.
So perhaps Newcastle will hope that Braz will know of a number of future superstars – who may not yet cost astronomical fees.
The post Report: 45-year-old's travelled to England and been interviewed for Newcastle sporting director role this week appeared first on TBR Football.