Newcastle United have reportedly narrowed down their list of managerial candidates to a three-man shortlist.
The Magpies left Steve Bruce in charge for Sunday's defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, but the 60-year-old is not expected to remain at the helm for much longer.
Newcastle have been linked with a host of top managerial names since their Saudi-backed takeover was given the green light, and according to The Times, three top candidates have now been identified.
The report claims that Belgium manager Roberto Martinez, Villarreal's Unai Emery and Rangers boss Steven Gerrard are now the Magpies' top picks to replace Bruce this season.
Martinez has also been linked with the Barcelona job, with the ex-Everton and Wigan Athletic boss set to depart the Red Devils at the end of the 2022 World Cup as things stand.
The three-man shortlist has emerged amid reports that Brendan Rodgers and Antonio Conte both have no interest in taking over at St James' Park.
Ben Knapton
