Newcastle's 'preferred choice' to replace Dan Ashworth goes public after interviews

According to Craig Hope at The Mail, Crystal Palace's Dougie Freedman looks to be the leading contender to replace Dan Ashworth at St James' Park.

After making it to the last three and the final stage of interviews, Hope's believes it's now 'his to turn down' as we close in on a new sporting director, revealing he's emerged as the 'preferred choice' for several key decision makers on Tyneside.

The report also states that there'd be 'no issue' over the compensation package needed to recruit him from Palace, allowing for a smooth move to the North-East should he accept the job.

Man Utd remain keen on the 49-year-old Scot, but they would offer him a position that sees him work under Ashworth in a recruitment role, whereas his position on Tyneside would feature a much wider remit.

Freedman is the current director of football at Palace and has developed a strong reputation during his time at Selhurst Park, overseeing the arrivals of Ebere Eze, Michael Olise, Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton; the former Blackburn star who has looked an absolute steal at £20m following several outstanding displays.

Paul Mitchell has also been heavily linked, although it's unclear if he is one of the final three candidates. Based on the reports emerging over the past few weeks, it feels like Freedman is the top target an on course to land the job - if he wants it.