Departing AS Roma sports director Tiago Pinto is being linked with Newcastle United.

The Toon are seeking a new technical director after placing Dan Ashworth on gardening leave as he pushes to join Manchester United.

And Pinto is emerging as a major candidate as he prepares to depart Roma at the end of month.

The Portuguese announced his decision to leave Roma before Christmas and also before the dismissal of Jose Mourinho.

Pinto has stated this season an ambition to work in the Premier League.