Staveley told to complete ‘huge’ Newcastle hire ‘right now’ after confirmed Charnley news – pundit
Appointing potential director of football Michael Emenalo must be a “huge priority” with the transfer window “creeping up” on relegation-threatened Newcastle, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Nigerian, 56, and manager Eddie Howe need to be talking about January targets “right now”.
Newcastle confirmed the departure of managing director Lee Charnley last Friday (19 November), paving the way for a new appointment.
Football Insider revealed last week (18 November) that negotiations are progressing well with Emenalo and Magpies chiefs are confident they have tied up a deal.
Whelan insisted getting the agreement over the line as soon as possible will be key to Newcastle’s chances of Premier League survival.
“It has to be a huge priority. Now they’ve got the manager bedded in, they really need to get this sporting director appointment over the line,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“They need to be working together, making plans and discussing potential players who can come in during the January window.
“Building a strong working relationship between those two will be vital so the sooner he comes in, the better. It has to be before this window opens.
“The earlier they get that deal done, the better their chances of getting the players they need to bolster the squad – and in turn, the better their chances of staying in the Premier League.
“They need to be talking about potential targets right now. The transfer window is creeping up on them.”
Emenalo enjoyed 10 trophy-laden years at Chelsea from 2007 to 2017.
He spent six years as the club’s technical director, overseeing recruitment and manager hires.
In other news, Kevin Phillips claims two fringe Newcastle United players set for “huge” roles under Howe.