Newcastle agree deal in principle with Eddie Howe

Newcastle have agreed a deal in principle with former Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe that is expected to see him take over at St. James’ Park.

Newcastle have been searching for a permanent successor to Steve Bruce in recent weeks, with Graeme Jones taking temporary control of the team in the interim.

The Magpies had been keen on former Arsenal boss Unai Emery, who has since enjoyed success back in Spain with Villarreal. But the Spaniard publicly ruled himself out on Wednesday.

Howe was on the club’s original shortlist of potential candidates and 90min understands that talks on Thursday went well, with Newcastle making a verbal offer for him to become the next permanent manager. He has agreed ‘in principle’ a two and a half year deal until 2024.

Howe made his name in management across two spells at Bournemouth, appointed for the first time when he was just 31. Having returned to the club following a brief period at Burnley, he later guided the Cherries into the Premier League and kept them in the top flight for four seasons.

Still only 43, Newcastle stands to be his first job since leaving Bournemouth almost 18 months ago. He would also be expected to bring his own staff to the north east, including long-time assistant Jason Tindall, who is currently on the staff at Sheffield United.

Newcastle are still searching for their first Premier League win of the season, losing heavily against Chelsea in their most recent match, and sit 19th in the table as a result.

With heavy investment in the transfer market expected following the PIF takeover last month, 90min understands there will be two transfer wishlists to cover the next two windows. The focus in January will be more about recruiting players to ensure the club remains in the Premier League, with the summer more about longer-term targets who may be harder to attract mid-season.

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