Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing Mauricio Pochettino as their top target should Eddie Howe opt to take the England job.
Howe, 46, faces a tough decision between continuing with Newcastle or pursuing his dream role as England manager.
According to The Mirror, Newcastle executives seek a quick decision, with Pochettino as their preferred candidate if a change is needed.
Newcastle’s Premier League opener against Southampton is just weeks away on August 17.
New sporting director Paul Mitchell, who brought Pochettino to Southampton, sees this as a prime opportunity for a reunion.
Pochettino, 52, and Mitchell previously collaborated at both Southampton and Tottenham.
Howe has expressed his ambition to manage England, as revealed in a yet to be published book, according to multiple reports.
“Would that be something I would like to do at some stage of my career? Yes! But I’m quite laid-back about it because I’m a believer that what will be, will be,” Howe said in an interview.
Despite the speculation, the Toon manager has emphasized his commitment to Newcastle during a pre-season training camp in Germany.
“For me, being very proud to be Newcastle manager, this is all about Newcastle. It’s not about England.
“I absolutely love the club. I love the supporters. I love where I am in my career. There’s no better place for me to be,” he added.
