Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly 'close' to becoming the new boss of Newcastle United, according to Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness).

As per the outlet, the former Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton and Espanyol coach has apparently rejected 'many offers' because he would like to return to managing in the Premier League.

St. James' Park could well be his next destination, if the proposed takeover in the North East is eventually approved by the top flight.

Talks are still ongoing over whether the prospective £300 million deal between Amanda Staveley's Saudi Arabian-led group and Mike Ashley will be given the approval by England's highest division given some of the delays that has meant that the whole situation still remains unclear.

For example, it is not yet clear as to whether the would-be owners have passed the Owners' and Directors' Test (ODT) set out by the league, as they have to determine as to whether the buying side are both fit and proper people.

As well as Staveley, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabian (KSA) crown prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) and the billionaire Reuben brothers, who are originally from India but based in London, are all aiming to take ownership of the Tyneside club.

Pochettino could well be a target of theirs to potentially replace Steve Bruce given his relatively impressive previous record in the Premier League, as he has won over half of the 256 games that he has managed in the top flight for the Saints and Spurs combined (via Transfermarkt).

However, everything is still speculation at this moment in time as the bid is not guaranteed to go through as of yet.

Geordies, would you like Poch as your manager for next season? Comment below!