‘Advanced’ claim made as Newcastle United target Nottingham Forest man

Newcastle United’s Sporting Director Search Narrows as Nottingham Forest Executive Emerges as Frontrunner

Newcastle United’s pursuit of a new sporting director has intensified, with Nottingham Forest’s Ross Wilson reportedly advancing through the recruitment process. The 41-year-old chief football officer, who has been on Newcastle’s radar since last month, recently participated in a follow-up interview for the position, signaling serious interest from both parties.

Wilson finds himself in direct competition with former Arsenal interim sporting director Jason Ayto, with both candidates now considered frontrunners to fill the vacancy left by Paul Mitchell’s departure.

The decision remains pending, but Newcastle’s hierarchy appears to be moving decisively to secure their preferred candidate before the summer transfer window gains momentum.

Since joining Forest in April 2023 as Filippo Giraldi’s replacement, Wilson has played a pivotal role in the club’s remarkable transformation.

His strategic vision contributed significantly to Forest’s seventh-place Premier League finish last season, securing European football for the first time in thirty years as they prepare for a Conference League campaign under Nuno Espírito Santo.

Wilson’s impressive track record extends beyond the City Ground. The Scottish executive previously turned down an approach from former club Huddersfield Town earlier this year, despite their interest in bringing him back to spearhead recruitment.

His extensive experience includes leadership roles at Rangers, Southampton, Watford, and Falkirk, demonstrating a proven ability to navigate different levels of the football pyramid.

The timing of Newcastle’s interest coincides with their ongoing pursuit of Forest winger Anthony Elanga, adding an intriguing subplot to negotiations. Newcastle recently saw a £45 million bid for the Swedish international rejected but have since returned with an improved offer exceeding £50 million.

While there’s no direct connection between Wilson’s potential appointment and the Elanga transfer, the parallel developments create an interesting dynamic between the two clubs.

For Newcastle, securing a sporting director of Wilson’s caliber would represent a significant coup. His success at Forest, combined with his broader experience in player recruitment and club infrastructure development, aligns perfectly with Newcastle’s ambitions to establish themselves as consistent top-six contenders.

The club’s ownership recognizes the need for strong football leadership to complement Eddie Howe’s coaching staff, particularly as they prepare for another season balancing domestic and European commitments.

As the decision process enters its final stages, Newcastle fans await clarity on who will assume this crucial role in shaping the club’s future.

Whether Wilson or Ayto ultimately gets the nod, the appointment will play a defining role in Newcastle’s summer transfer strategy and long-term planning.

With pre-season preparations looming, the Magpies appear determined to resolve this key position before turning their full attention to strengthening the playing squad.