Report: Newcastle shortlist four managers to replace Steve Bruce

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ESPN have claimed that Newcastle United’s potential new owners have drawn up a shortlist of four managers to replace Steve Bruce in the coming months – and former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino sits at the top of that list.

The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund is set to take over from Mike Ashley, obtaining 80% of Newcastle while Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners and the Reuben Brothers will own 10% – as a takeover becomes reportedly imminent.

So much so, that the new board has already entered the transfer market – and have compiled a shortlist of managers to replace current boss Steve Bruce. The Geordie boss has taken Newcastle to 13th in the league and to safety, despite a huge injury list.

Pochettino sits at the top of the shortlist, given he is out of work after being sacked by Spurs. Max Allegri is also on the shortlist, while Toon fans will be delighted to see Rafa Benitez is another, currently employed by Chinese side Dalian Yifang.

A somewhat left-sided inclusion on the four-man shortlist is Borussia Dortmund manager Lucien Favre, who has impressed since taking over the likes of Jadon Sancho, Marco Reus and Erling Haaland.

TBR’s view – Which manager would suit Newcastle most?

That is clear. Benitez struck a chord with Newcastle supporters during his three-year stay, getting them promoted and keeping them in the Premier League despite clearely not getting on with current owner Mike Ashley.

He is a fan favourite and although harsh on Bruce, bringing Benitez back to the fore would be top business. However, Pochettino has shown he does not need much money to thrive in England – so imagine what he could do with money.

Allegri has a winning mentality that is unmatched by the majority, while Favre’s attacking stylle at Dortmund has attracted many. But Benitez would be the best, and the obvious replacement.