Michael Emenalo has already submitted his transfer plans to Newcastle United.

But Newcastle are holding off on appointing him just yet, as they conduct a 'thorough process'.

The Athletic reports the winless Magpies may wait until AFTER January to make an appointment... despite their precarious situation.

Emenalo, 56, is one of the favourites for the job and has held talks with Toon bosses.

He would be ready to start immediately, and has already outlined plans for the January window.

But as the Toon dawdle on finalising an appointment, they may leave their January business to people already in place at the club - despite their dire situation in the league.

As it stands business would be left to manager Eddie Howe, head of recruitment Steve Nickson and Amanda Staveley.