Michael Emenalo, formerly Chelsea technical director, has rejected Newcastle's offer to become their new director of football, according to reports.
Emenalo, 56, travelled to Saudi Arabia for talks and was understood to be the club's No 1 choice for the role, with director Jamie Reuben and Newcastle's Saudi owners as well as first-team manager Eddie Howe keen to appoint him.
But according to the Telegraph, the club's inability to match his ambitious plans for the relegation-threatened Magpies means he has declined a deal.
After thorough negotiations with director Amanda Staveley, in which he outlined his short- and long-term ideas to improve the club, Emenalo reportedly feels the club's current vision does not suit him.
His rejection of their offer is not thought to be based on Newcastle's relegation battle or lowly league position, and the relationship has remained cordial, so the club could re-approach him again in future with a more suitable proposal.
The news will cause some to question where the power lies at Newcastle, with Unai Emery also rejecting an approach to become manager after a botched pursuit of the former Arsenal boss.
More to follow.
yawaiksy
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He's a Biafran not a Nigerian
Did he tell you so?
Harvertz
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He's a Biafran not a Nigerian
is that a name of a country
zuzbcekmyz
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Biafrans to the world
zuzbcekmyz
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Nigeria and Africa in general should be proud of this guy sentiments apart
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He's a Biafran not a Nigerian
Ceaaeltu
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I think Newcastle has to win today. If not I think they’ll probably get relegated. It looks like Rafa might be sacked. If so drop Howe, after relegation and bring Rafa back.
A sacked Rafa that's not doing well should be appointed by New Castle right? You're daft sorry to say
Ceaaeltu
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Nigeria and Africa in general should be proud of this guy sentiments apart
deba_LFC
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that guys a Nigerian and not a Nigerian at d same time.... u Gerrit?! if u don't gerrit, forget abourit! 😆
cemabpruyz
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I think Newcastle has to win today. If not I think they’ll probably get relegated. It looks like Rafa might be sacked. If so drop Howe, after relegation and bring Rafa back.