The new Newcastle United owners have reportedly targeted Villarreal manager Unai Emery as a replacement for current boss Steve Bruce.
Since the Saudi Public Investment Fund's takeover was completed, Bruce's position is said to have come under question, with the new hierarchy pursuing major improvements at St. James' Park.
While there were rumours of the Englishman departing before Sunday's clash with Tottenham Hotspur, Bruce took charge of the Magpies, and they fell to a 3-2 defeat on home turf.
According to Metro, the ownership have intensified their search for a new manager and have now turned their attention to former Arsenal boss Emery.
Such rumours follow a difficult start to the season for Bruce and Newcastle, as they have failed to win any of their opening eight league games and sit on just three points.
Emery took charge of Villarreal in 2020 after his departure from the Gunners, and he added a fourth Europa League title to his trophy cabinet as they defeated Manchester United in the final last season, after he led Sevilla to three straight wins between 2013 and 2016.
Sam Varley
