Newcastle United submit landmark offer as deal close – sources
Newcastle United have offered Dougie Freedman a deal to become their director of football to replace Dan Ashworth, sources tell Football Insider.
Newcastle had been hopeful of securing an agreement with the Crystal Palace sporting director by now, with a deal having been close ten days ago, as Football Insider reported.
However, Palace remain hopeful of keeping the Scotsman and are making attempts to convince him to stay at the club.
Senior figures at St James’ Park, meanwhile, view Freedman, 49, as the perfect replacement for Ashworth.
Newcastle table Dougie Freedman offer
This news comes after Football Insider revealed that Man United are closing in on the appointment of Ashworth with a breakthrough in negotiations expected in the near future.
The director of football was placed on gardening leave by Newcastle in February, with the appointment of Freedman potentially paving the way for his departure.
A formal offer has now been made, leaving the ball in his court for a decision.
Palace’s sporting director is highly rated within the game, after Man United also tried to convince him to leave south London, with Sir Alex Ferguson pushing for the deal.
Freedman rejoined the Eagles in 2017, having previously managed the club between 2011 and 2012, while having played for them between 1995 and 1997, and again between 2000 and 2008.
Having spearheaded deals for the likes of Ebere Eze, Michael Olise, Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton at Selhurst Park, he has a proven track record of impressive recruitment.
In other news, Aston Villa have an advantage over Newcastle in the race to sign Ross Barkley.
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