According to The Telegraph, Newcastle’s search for a new sporting director has been narrowed down to the final two candidates – Crystal Palace’s Dougie Freedman Johannes Spors; the global sporting director of 777 Group.
It’s believed both are now the clear front runners after an in-depth interview process, with Freedman considered the marginal favourite, as he’s already known to Eddie Howe and has a proven record in Premier League recruitment.
Luke Edwards reports that the 49-year-old Scot is ‘very keen’ on the job and shone during the interview phase, where he showed an ‘ambitious vision’ for the club’s recruitment plans. Considering he brought the likes of Ebere Eze, Michael Olise, Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton to Palace on a tight budget, it’s easy to see why that would appeal to Toon chief.s
Spors has an impressive recruitment record in Europe and has previously worked as RB Leipzig’s head of recruitment before leaving for 777; who are in the process of a takeover at Everton and also own Genoa, Standard Liege, Hertha Berlin and Vasco da Gama.
It’s easy to see why both carry so much appeal, but sounds like the club favour Freedman for his Premier League experience and recruitment plans, with the ability to sign well on a budget more important than ever in an FFP world.
Newcastle reduce Dan Ashworth replacement shortlist to two names
✍️ @LukeEdwardsTele#TelegraphFootball | #NUFC
— Telegraph Football (@TeleFootball) May 8, 2024
Sorry – but you can’t put our recruitment in the hands of someone called “dougie”
Jordi Plato(Quote)