Newcastle's sporting director pursuit takes blow

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 20 May 2024 12:28 BST
• 3 min read

Newcastle’s quest for a replacement for Dan Ashworth took has taken a blow, according to a recent report.

Journalist Callum O'Connell has stated that Dougie Freedman told Crystal Palace fans during the club’s game with Aston Villa on Sunday that he will be remaining at Selhurst Park despite interest from the Magpies.

On the final day of the season, it’s thought that Freedman informed supporters that he will remaining with the club, therefore snubbing interest from Newcastle.

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Among other candidates thought be on Newcastle’s list is Johannes Spors, current sporting director of 777 group, but nothing has been confirmed yet regarding a new appointment.

It was announced earlier this year that Ashworth had been placed on gardening leave ahead of a proposed switch to Manchester United, though the two clubs are yet to agree terms on the compensation.

It comes after the news that Crystal Palace chairman, Steve Parish, is hoping to persuade Freedman to reject an offer from Newcastle.

#CPFC director of football Dougie Freedman told fans at Palace v Aston Villa that he would be staying at Selhurst Park, despite interest from #NUFC.

Obviously, nothing is confirmed, but could be big news for the Eagles.

— Callum O'Connell (@C_OConnellSport) May 20, 2024

Freedman, who was also linked with Manchester United, did meet with Newcastle officials earlier in the month and was considering a switch to St James’ Park.

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Will Dougie Freedman stay with Crystal Palace?

The Guardian reported that Parish is ‘doing everything he can’ to keep hold of Freedman, while Newcastle see the Scot as the perfect man to replace Ashworth and work alongside head coach, Eddie Howe.

Freedman helped Palace appoint Oliver Glasner to replace Roy Hodgson in February, and the Austrian has been a revelation since coming in, with seven wins, three draws, and three loses in his first 13 Premier League matches with the South London club.

The club’s season was rounded off in empathic style - putting five goals past Unai Emery’s Aston Villa on the final day of the season.