Newcastle United could look to former Toon striker to replace void left by Paul Mitchell’s exit

Newcastle United are reportedly in no immediate rush to replace Paul Mitchell when the sporting director steps down at the end of June.

The Magpies have had two sporting directors since the PIF took over, and neither has gone particularly well, which could lead the club to try something different going forward.

However, their immediate priority is to hire a replacement for CEO Darren Eales, who is also due to step away from the club in the near future.

It makes sense that Newcastle would hire the CEO first, as they may have their own ideas on who should be sporting director, if indeed they believe that’s the way to go at all.

Newcastle have former striker Demba Ba in mind to replace Paul Mitchell

Newcastle will be on the lookout, though, just in case anyone should come along who they believe fits the bill, and it seems that there are already a couple of people in mind.

The iPaper believes that Newcastle could reignite their interest in Dougie Freedman, who turned down the role last year, only to leave Crystal Palace for PIF-owned Al-Diriyah, as well as claiming that head of scouting, Steve Nickson, will once again be considered.

However, the surprise name mentioned is that of former Newcastle striker Demba Ba, who did a fantastic job of turning around Ligue 2 side Dunkerque and is now being looked at as a result.

Demba Ba’s connection to Newcastle could make him a good fit

Demba Ba was a huge fan favourite during his time at Newcastle, where he was prolific in front of goal before he was poached by Chelsea.

He’s believed to be a fan of Eddie Howe’s too, so with his club connection and an admiration of the gaffer.