Saudi shortlist revealed as NUFC narrow down search for new director of football - ESPN

According to ESPN, Newcastle United have narrowed their search for a new director of football down to two names.

Michael Emenalo is believed to have been shortlisted, however it's been claimed this afternoon that Ramon Planes - Barcelona's former technical director - is also in the running.

The report states that another unnamed option has been considered, but it seems our owner's search for a new sporting director is nearing a conclusion.

ESPN state that the Planes has been approached by Newcastle United chiefs this week, with this coming just a few days after the 54-year-old left his role at the Nou Camp.

Emenalo has previously been described as the 'leading candidate' for the job. The Telegraph revealed last week that he'd held talks with club representatives out in Saudi Arabia, while Football Insider claimed he looked set to be appointed over the international break.

However, with Planes now available sooner than expected - his contract at Barcelona was initially due to expire at the end of the season - it seems he has also come into the reckoning.

The Spaniard played a key role in signing Barca wonderkid Pedri and also has experience in England, having worked alongside Mauricio Pochettino as Tottenham's technical secretary during the 2014/15 season.