The Express reports that Newcastle United are close to appointing Steve McClaren as their new manager.

The announcement could come as early as next week after the Magpies decided not to follow up their initial interest in Patrick Vieira.

According to the report, the Toon have cooled their interest in Manchester City Elite Development Squad boss Vieira due to the 38-year old's expected salary and seven-figure compensation fee to be paid City.

54-year-old McClaren was sacked last week by Derby County after failing to win promotion to the Premier League but is likely to again get the opportunity to manage in England's top flight anyway.