(Credit: Imago/Getty Images)
(Credit: Imago/Getty Images)

Sources: Newcastle agree terms with Nottingham Forest man

James Murray

James holds a degree in Sports Journalism and Communications (MA) from the Real Madrid Graduate School. He has experience working for a number of local news outlets as well as the Sunday Mirror and Real Madrid TV. James is from Scunthorpe and has an affinity with Scunthorpe United, but is also a huge West Ham supporter and an expert on all things to do with the Hammers. He started working for Breaking Media in July 2023, initially writing on the Club Sites, where he specialised in West Ham content, before moving to Football Insider – where he is now an expert in football finance, speaking regularly with Stefan Borson and Keith Wyness to generate high-quality content in all things related to finance in the Premier League, Football League, and Scottish Premiership.

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Newcastle United are closing in on the appointment of a new senior man after reaching an agreement on terms.

Newcastle are currently revamping their executive team following a couple of high-profile departures at St James’ Park. 

It was confirmed Darren Eales would step down as Newcastle’s CEO this year after being diagnosed with a chronic form of blood cancer. 

Eales was appointed in 2022 following the Saudi-backed takeover at St James’ Park and took a more central role after the departure of Amanda Staveley last summer. 

Meanwhile, Paul Mitchell stepped down from his role as sporting director in May after less than a year on Tyneside. 

Eddie Howe of Newcastle United during a match at St. James' Park.
Eddie Howe's side are revamping their executive team (Credit: Imago)

Ross Wilson closing in on Newcastle move

The search for Mitchell’s replacement has been ongoing over the past few months. 

GiveMeSport journalist Ben Jacobs reported on Friday (10 October) Ross Wilson has now agreed to become Newcastle’s new sporting director. 

Jacobs said Eddie Howe’s side are in advanced talks with Nottingham Forest, where Wilson has been operating as chief football officer for the past two-and-a-half years.

Evangelos Marinakis had been hoping to keep the Scotsman at the City Ground, but he is now closing in on a move to Newcastle. 

Wilson previously played a key role in securing Forest’s signing of Elliot Anderson from Newcastle in the summer of 2024. 

The 22-year-old, who made the move to the City Ground for £35million, made his senior England debut last month following his impressive club form. 

Meanwhile, Wilson also had a hand in Anthony Elanga’s £55m move to Newcastle from Forest earlier this summer. 

Newcastle make 'risky' move after double deal

Hopkinson has joined Newcastle from Madison Square Garden Sports, where he was president and chief operating officer, spearheading the business operations of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. 

The Canadian also previously operated as chief commercial officer during his 24 years with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, focusing on Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors’ commercial activities. 

However, former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider Newcastle are making a “risky” move appointing Hopkinson and Wilson

Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope reported on Friday that Wilson could start work at St James’ Park as soon as next week. 

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