Newcastle United won’t be getting hold of Marc Overmars as he has decided to stay at Ajax, the Athletic report.
Overmars a no go
Newcastle’s new owners have been chasing the Ajax sporting director as they look to start a new era at St. James’ Park.
However, although the Magpies are set to land Eddie Howe as their new manager, he won’t be joined by the legendary Dutchman.
Overmars, who is on a £15,000-a-week contract currently (Daily Mirror), has apparently opted to stay at Ajax rather than take the move to Tyneside.
There was talk in the Daily Mail that Newcastle could appoint Ajax boss Erik ten Hag and Overmars, as they are big admirers of the Dutch club.
But, despite the appeal of their current project, it seems that the Magpies haven’t been able to land either of the Ajax men.
That means Newcastle’s search for a sporting director is set to continue.
The search continues
Jason Wilcox at Manchester City has been linked heavily (Daily Star), and it could now be him that they turn to.
The appointment of a sporting director could be crucial for Newcastle’s plans long-term.
Much has been made of the new owner’s desire to bring in high profile players, but having a strategy in place to do so will be crucial.
Missing out on Overmars could, therefore, be a sizeable disappointment.
He has done an incredible job at Ajax, where some of the most promising talents in Europe have been snapped up cheaply or developed through their academy.
But with Ajax having Champions League football on offer it is understandable why Overmars felt content with staying put for now, rather than taking the risk of moving to St. James’ Park.
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