Newcastle continue talks with Dan Ashworth replacement as sporting director search continues

Talks between Newcastle United and Johannes Spors are continuing as the Magpies search for a new sporting director.

Crystal Palace director Dougie Freedman was tipped with a move to St James' Park but turned the opportunity down to stay at the Eagles.

Newcastle have been on the hunt for a new sporting director since February 2024 when Dan Ashworth announced his intention to leave in favour of a move to Manchester United.

After several candidates, Spors is now set to be leading and Newcastle are working hard for his signature.

Image: Getty

Spors has previous experience in recruitment

Spors is currently working as the global sporting director at 777 Group who have made headlines for their failed bid to takeover Premier League side Everton.

The group also own Red Star FC, Genoa, Standard Liege, Vasco da Gama and Hertha Berlin.

Spors has previously worked as head of recruitment at Bundesliga club RB Leipzig.

According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, Newcastle wants the deal done as soon as possible.

On Spors, Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: "Dougie Freedman signed a new contract there [at Crystal Palace], he's staying put.

"Johannes Spors, the global sporting director of 777, the last information that I had was around a week or so ago, was that the talks were continuing between Newcastle and Johannes Spors over that vacant sporting director position.

"I think Newcastle United will want to get this sorted as quickly as possible."

Getting a sporting director soon is important ahead of a busy summer.

The Magpies have been working hard to appoint a new sporting director and have reportedly spoken to several candidates since February including Paolo Maldini and Dougie Freedman.

The pressure is on Newcastle to make the appointment as they try to work their way around FFP and PSR struggles.

While Newcastle have secured their first summer signing in Lloyd Kelly, the appointment of a sporting director seems the more important deal to be done.