Newcastle hit Marc Overmars ‘complicating factor’ which could ruin January transfer plans

Newcastle v Chelsea Match in Pictures

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Newcastle United’s search for a new transfer chief has hit a stumbling block as a clause in Marc Overmars’ Ajax contract threatens to scupper the Dutchman’s move to Tyneside. The Magpies’ new owners still have key appointments to make ahead of a crucial January transfer window in which they are expected to bolster the squad. 

Now ten games into the season, Newcastle are one of only two sides to remain winless in the Premier League. 

Interim boss Graeme Jones may have been encouraged by holding Chelsea until the hour mark at St James’ Park on Saturday, but then the floodgates opened. 

A Reece James double put distance between the sides, and a trademark Jorginho penalty sealed the three points for Thomas Tuchel’s team. 

Jones’ temporary period in charge has therefore consisted of one draw and one loss, as Amanda Staveley and co. continue to scout for their new manager. 

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The role of sporting director is also up for grabs, however, with a view to overseeing transfer business for the Magpies. 

Overmars has fulfilled a similar role at Ajax since 2012, and given their exemplary record in the transfer market, Newcastle are understandably keen to bring him in. 

According to Voetbal Primeur, however, Overmars has a three-month notice period with the Dutch side which could delay his move to Tyneside until the end of January. 

Unless all parties can find a way around that obligation, the 48-year-old could become unworkable as a candidate due to the January transfer window’s importance. 

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Also reportedly in the running for sporting director are former Monaco chief Luis Campos and former Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo. 

Already three points from safety, smart moves are going to have to be made in order to ensure Premier League survival. 

Whoever takes up the job will be tasked with spurring Newcastle on towards the lofty ambitions of their new owners. 

“Newcastle United deserves to be top of the Premier League. We want to get there. It will take time, but we will get there,” Staveley told Sky Sports. 

“We’re proud to be part of the Premier League. It’s an incredibly competitive league, which we love.

“Premier League football is the best in the world, and Newcastle United is the best team in the world.

“We want to see it get those trophies, obviously. At top of the Premier League, in Europe, but to get trophies means patience, investment, time.

“We want everybody to work with us to build the club towards what it needs to be.”

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