According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Newcastle United's head of recruitment, Steve Nickson, will leave the club.
Reports indicate that Nickson has informed Newcastle United of his intention to depart, and although the exact timing of his exit from St. James' Park is not yet confirmed, all parties have accepted the situation.
After 15 years at Newcastle United, a move to the Championship is a potential next career step for Nickson.
Nickson has served as Newcastle United's head of recruitment since 2017, leading the club's scouting system. Prior to that, he was the academy recruitment manager, joining the club from Blackburn Rovers in 2011. He was instrumental in bringing in Sven Botman and Joelinton and facilitated the signings of many young players.
In the summer of 2025, Nickson collaborated with Andy Howe, who was temporarily in charge of Newcastle United's first-team recruitment after sporting director Paul Mitchell's departure and before Ross Wilson took over.
Newcastle United faces a crucial transfer window this summer, following the long-standing transfer saga surrounding Alexander Isak in the summer of 2025, which impacted the club's recruitment operations.
Newcastle United has sold winger Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69 million, and they have also completed the signing of goalkeeper Jawen from Reims.