Newcastle: PIF 'working hard' to make key behind-scenes appointment

Newcastle United are ‘working hard’ to appoint a new chief executive as the Magpies’ cash-rich owners continue their St James’ Park revolution, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Saudi Arabia-based Public Investment Fund led a £305million takeover of the Tynesiders last October, making them the richest club in world football.

Speaking at a Financial Times Live event, via Chronicle Live, co-owner Amanda Staveley has confirmed Newcastle are looking to recruit a chief executive.

Staveley admitted talks have been held with potential candidates but the St James’ Park hierarchy will not be rushed into making an appointment as they ‘have tried to find the best’.

It became clear Newcastle were looking to bring in another big name behind-the-scenes after Lee Charnley’s 22-year association with the club came to an end in November, with a statement revealing a formal recruitment process was underway.

Soon after the turn of the year, The Athletic claimed the interview process had begun and that the club expected to complete the proceedings ‘over the next few weeks’.

The Sun journalist Alan Nixon has suggested Peter Kenyon is in the running to be unveiled as Newcastle’s new chief executive, having previously held a similar role at Chelsea.

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Downie is aware that Staveley and other key decision-makers working behind-the-scenes are seeking a new chief executive.

The Sky Sports reporter understands Newcastle have stepped up the process of welcoming a fresh face to St James’ Park since the closure of the winter transfer window at the end of January.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: “I know for a fact it is something that they’ve been working hard to try and bring in since