Key Newcastle United figure 'spotted' watching £95m duo during international break as ex-Leeds man 'in demand'

The majority of Newcastle United’s squad may have earned some rest during the international break - but the same can not be said of their recruitment staff.

The Magpies are currently formulating their plans for what will be a pivotal summer transfer window as they look to move on from what has been a challenging season at St James Park. There are several potential targets being monitored and strengthening in attacking areas and at the heart of Eddie Howe’s defence are both believed to be high up the list of priorities.

The Magpies head of recruitment Steve Nickson has been a regular at games in France, Portugal, Spain and Italy in recent months and the former Blackburn Rovers scout has continued to monitor the South American market as United aim to establish a foothold in the likes of Brazil and Argentina.

However, a game far closer to home was a source of interest for Nickson after he was spotted at England’s friendly defeat against Brazil last weekend as Magpies team-mates Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimaraes went head-to-head. Newcastle have been linked with Brazilian duo Bremer and Raphinha in the recent past - although there are believed to be a whole host of clubs around Europe and in the Saudi Pro League said to retain an interest in the latter of that duo. Nickson is also believed to have taken in Colombia’s win against Spain at West Ham United's London Stadium over the international break.

The former Blackburn Rovers scout has been an integral figure in United’s recruitment plans in recent years and he is reportedly set for further responsibility in the wake of Dan Ashworth’s impending departure to Manchester United. As part of their recruitment plans, Eddie Howe’s nephew Andy has also had a title change after becoming the club’s new assistant head of first-team recruitment.

Speaking earlier this month, Howe said: "Dan's exit hasn't changed anything regarding our recruitment processes, how we recruit, the methods we use. That's been totally unaffected. It's been a title change (for Andy Howe), not a role change.

"His role has always been very prominent in recruitment. When I look at the role in recruiting Bruno (Guimaraes), Tino (Livramento), Sandro (Tonali), Harrison Ashby, Anthony Gordon, he was absolutely prominent in those key signings for the football club," added the Newcastle boss. "He's done an outstanding job and as I say, the title change is just recognition for what he has done.”