Yasir Al-Rumayyan set to offer major Newcastle role to ex-Real Madrid chief - Report

Newcastle United are closing in on the appointment of a new CEO to replace Darren Eales, who is due to step down imminently following a cancer diagnosis last year.

As revealed by Craig Hop at The Mail in a Monday tea-time exclusive, Toon chiefs are speaking to former Real Madrid executive David Hopkinson over the role.

The 54-year-old is thought to be 'in the frame' to land the job, with PIF governor and Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan set to make the final decision.

However, it's believed Hopkinson is the leading candidate for the CEO role should he agree terms, with PIF identifying the Canadian as their preferred choice.

Newcastle are approaching a vital summer, yet currently have a sporting director set to leave later this month in Paul Mitchell and a CEO in Darren Eales who is also due to depart, increasing the need for clarity and stability at the very top.

Who is David Hopkinson?

Hopkinson, was most recently the president and chief operating officer of Madison Square Garden Sports Corporation and was Real Madrid's global head of partnerships.

He is currently serving as a board member for Canada Basketball and also boasts experience in venue management following his Madison Square Garden role, allowing him to support the club's plans over a potential new stadium.

Hopkinson has previously discussed his experience in this field, saying: "Throughout my 25+ year career, I've had the privilege of stewarding some of the world's most iconic sports and entertainment brands through periods of significant growth and evolution.

"At MSG Sports, I directed comprehensive business strategy across legendary venues including Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and the revolutionary Sphere in Las Vegas.

"Previously at Real Madrid, I led global partnerships for the world's most valuable football club, engaging with a 1B+ global fanbase.

"At MLSE, I spearheaded transformative initiatives including the landmark Scotiabank Arena naming rights agreement ($800M+ CDN), while overseeing multiple professional sports franchises."