Former Arsenal CEO linked with taking over from Darren Eales finds new job with Premier League rival

One of the early frontrunners to succeed Darren Eales as Newcastle United's Chief Executive Offer is now out of the race after taking up the position elsewhere.

Last year Darren Eales announced he would be stepping away from his role as CEO of Newcastle United following a cancer diagnosis.

The notice period Eales gave was a lengthy one but is still finite and Newcastle have to find a replacement sooner rather than later.

One of the earliest names in the frame was that of former Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham, but the opportunity to nab the former Gunners chief has now gone.

Vinai Venkatesham has joined Tottenham Hotspur as CEO after being linked to Newcastle

As reported by Sky Sports News this afternoon, Vinai Venkatesham has joined Tottenham Hotspur as their new CEO which leaves Newcastle needing to look elsewhere.

A recent report has suggested that the Magpies are now eyeing Manchester United's Colette Roche to take up the role.

Things have seemed to have been slow on the recruitment front, but we imagine there has been a lot of activity behind the scenes that we just don't hear about.

What will come first, the new CEO or the stadium announcement?

If Roche were to be appointed, she would share a great deal in common with Chief Operating Officer Brad Miller, as both have worked extensively with Manchester Airport.

At this point, it seems like a bit of a toss-up as to which we will hear about first, the stadium plans or our new CEO.

One criticism that can never be levelled at this Newcastle United hierarchy is that they jump into things without thinking.