- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Dougie Freedman has now agreed a new deal with Crystal Palace and has rejected the chance of joining Newcastle United.
Led by manager Oliver Glasner, the London club finished the season strongly, including beating Aston Villa 5-0 on the final day and securing a top-half Premier League finish.
The interest from Newcastle United has always been there since Dan Ashworth left his role as Sporting Director after being approached by Manchester United.
HITC revealed earlier in the month that there were many top candidates pushing for that role, including 49-year-old Freedman.
Dougie Freedman was Newcastle United’s first choice to replace Dan Ashworth
Dougie Freedman has been in talks with Newcastle after he emerged as their first choice to replace Ashworth as Sporting Director at St James’ Park.
However, HITC also understands that Crystal Palace – who did not stop Freedman from talking to Newcastle – have offered him a new contract and they have now agreed on a new deal.
Newcastle were told on Thursday of the Scotman’s decision.
READ MORE: Exclusive: Chelsea and Newcastle eye ‘exceptional’ forward likened to Hazard and Ben Arfa
What next for Newcastle United after Dan Ashworth?
Heading into summer Steve Nickson – chief scout – who wanted the sporting director job will play a leading role in recruitment as Newcastle assess the situation.
The Magpies are still waiting on whether they will play in Europe next season after finishing the campaign in seventh place. They beat Brentford on the final day.
READ MORE: Exclusive: Newcastle and Chelsea eye La Liga star with £86m release clause, club ready to sell
If Manchester United lose the FA Cup final to Manchester City on Saturday at Wembley, then it will be a place in the Europa Conference League for Eddie Howe’s side.
That would mean back-to-back European finishes for the first time in over two decades for the club.
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