Multiple Premier League clubs are frequently linked with approaches to directors at European clubs, with Newcastle United the most recent.
Following the Saudi PIF takeover at St James’ Park, Newcastle have been linked with the likes of Marc Overmars, Luis Campos and Antero Henrique. Eddie Howe being appointed as manager at the Magpies won’t change that, and it’s assumed Newcastle will want to bring in someone who can oversee what’s happening on the football side of the club.
Manchester United have also been linked with all three of the men mentioned above, with their director links going back some years. With questions around the future of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, similar claims have risen again over the past few weeks.
There’s even been suggestions Ralf Rangnick could be an option to take the managerial position from Solskjaer on an interim basis, and then have a longer term director role with Manchester United.
Wednesday saw Liverpool announce that Michael Edwards will be leaving the club at the end of the current season, a situation which had been known about for quite a while. Whilst the Reds announced that Julian Ward will be stepping up to replace him, it would be no surprise if Liverpool bring in someone experienced to work alongside him.
Given these situations, the Ramon Planes news from Barcelona is intriguing.
Thursday’s edition of Mundo Deportivo reports Planes, who has worked in various roles for Barcelona, and had a short spell at Tottenham, has ‘asked to leave the club immediately’. He wants to start a ‘new adventure’, and consider proposals he’s already received, and those expected to come.
Barcelona are said to be surprised, because they’ve been happy with Planes, however, it’s thought they’re likely to accept his request. Marc Overmars, Michael Zorc and Ralf Rangnick are named as possibilities to replace him.
Sport are also backing up the story that Planes wants to leave, and it’s curious where he’ll land next. Given how attractive the Premier League is, it would be no surprise if an England return is on the cards.
Newcastle United, Manchester United and Liverpool are all likely to be linked, and it would be no surprise if others are also added to the mix.
