Dougie Freedman turns down Newcastle job - Major update on Wednesday night

Dougie Freedman has opted against a summer move to St James' Park, with the Crystal Palace director set to sign a new deal at Selhurst Park instead.

This comes from Fabrizio Romano and The Guardian's Ed Aarons, who revealed late last night that the 49-year-old is ready to commit to the South London club, who are offering him a 'significant pay rise' after serious interest from Newcastle.

Freedman had been described as the 'frontrunner' to replace Dan Ashworth and reached the final stages of the club's in-depth interview process after leading recruitment firm Odgers Berndtson led our search for a new sporting director.

Former RB Leipzig director Johannes Spors could now be one to watch if the Scot really has turned us down, as The Telegraph recently claimed it was a two-horse race between him and Freedman; who was favoured due to his Premier League experience.

If true and our 'top target' has said no after impressing in interviews, it makes you wonder what stopped him from taking the job. Either way, it's important we fill this vital role soon ahead of a huge summer transfer window for the club.