Who is Jason Wilcox? - The Man City man wanted by Newcastle United's owners-in-waiting

Manchester City’s Jason Wilcox is being eyed by Newcastle United’s new owners-in-waiting.

According to a report from the Telegraph, the Manchester City Academy Director has emerged as a target for the Saudi-backed consortium who wrapped up a deal to takeover the Magpies on Thursday.

After an 18 month wait, Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners, Reuben Brothers and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia have finally got the keys to St James’ Park, ending the near 15-year ownership of Sports Direct tycoon Mike Ashley.

And it is understood that Wilcox could be one of the first acquisitions the consortium look to secure.

We’ve gathered everything you need to know about the Toon target below…

Who is Jason Wilcox?

Wilcox started his playing career at Blackburn Rovers, and was part of the side that won the Premier League title back in 1995.

Primarily a left-winger, he would go on to play for Leeds United, Leicester City, and Blackpool, as well as picking up three senior caps for England.

Since hanging up his boots in 2006, he has gone on to work with Manchester City as the club’s Academy Director – a role he has held since 2017.

What role would he be offered at Newcastle United?

It is understood that Newcastle’s new owners are interested in placing a greater emphasis on the academy and sporting executive of the club.

As part of that, they could look to bring in Wilcox as a sporting director.

The Telegraph report that the Magpies could look to make a swoop for the 50-year-old, with claims that Wilcox’s departure would represent a “major loss” for the Premier League champions.

Owen Brown, who worked under ex-Toon boss Rafa Benitez at Liverpool, is also said to be a potential candidate for the role.