Report: Newcastle ready to make approach for Sheffield Wednesday manager Steve Bruce

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Newcastle United are reportedly set to make an approach for Sheffield Wednesday manager Steve Bruce.

According to the Sun, the Magpies have identified the 58-year-old as their priority target for their vacant managerial position at St James’ Park.

It is understood that an approach is imminent and it would cost no more than £1million in compensation to get him out of his current deal with Championship outfit Wednesday.

The report details that the English boss would “jump at the chance” to take charge of his boyhood club Newcastle, while long-time assistants Steve Agnew and Stephen Clemence could join him if he does move to the North-East.

Newcastle reportedly want to wrap up their appointment before departing for pre-season at the weekend, so talks between Bruce and owner Mike Ashley could take place soon.

There is a lot of frustration around the club following the departure of Rafael Benitez, who successfully retained the club’s top-flight status for back-to-back seasons and was a firm fan favourite.

TBR’s View:

Newcastle need to name their successor to Benitez quickly and may as well rip the plaster of soon, as whoever they appoint is likely to be under scrutiny from some fans immediately.

It seems like no appointment would be good enough to replace Benitez and Bruce is a brave decision.

He’s proven himself to be extremely effective in setting teams up to get promoted from the Championship, achieving that on four different occasions during his managerial career.

But found it a lot more difficult during his time in the Premier League and achieved very little of note.

It will be brave on his part if he takes the position, as he knows he will be walking into a hostile atmosphere at Newcastle.