Newcastle United have 'held talks' with Brighton & Hove Albion technical director Dan Ashworth, according to the latest reports.
The Athletic claims that a decision on Ashworth's future is 'not imminent' despite talks having taken place.
The 50-year-old is one of the names being considered for the director of football role, but is not the only candidate.
READ MORE: Newcastle's stunning starting XI if Eddie Howe lands January transfer targets
The Magpies have been linked with former Chelsea director Michael Emenalo but the new owners released a statement, saying he was not offered the role.
The appointment of a director of football looks to be on the back burner, with Nick Hammond having been appointed as a temporary consultant with the January transfer window in mind, with external recruitment company Nolan Partners leading the process for a permanent candidate.
Brighton boss Graham Potter gave an update on the situation last week. He told Sussex Live: “He’s been great to work with. I didn’t know Dan [Ashworth] before I came here. He’s fantastic at this job. He’s incredibly organised and links the club really well.
“He’s helped, I’m helped and we’re all helped by having a fantastic chairman who sets the tone for everything, provides a fantastic direction for us all, so we’re all able to do our jobs really well.
“Tony [Bloom] is really supportive of Dan [Ashworth], myself, and everybody.
“Dan [Ashworth] has been brilliant for me. I can’t comment on speculation but he’s been a key part of what we’ve done and helped incredibly with me and my staff. He’s played a huge role.”
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