Ross Wilson, Nottingham Forest sporting director (Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Newcastle United are believed to be closing in on the appointment of Nottingham Forest's chief football officer Ross Wilson.

It is understood that Wilson is the only man Newcastle see fit to replace Paul Mitchell, who left St James' Park five months ago.

Wilson is believed to be negotiaing his exit package from the City Ground after Newcastle were given the green light by PIF to make their move.

After landing David Hopkinson as CEO the ex-Toronto supremo was tasked with finding a sporting director in good time for the January window.

And the Magpies are hopeful that appointment will be made in due course as head coach Eddie Howe welcomes the idea of former Rangers man Wilson coming in.

Ross Wilson, Nottingham Forest sporting director, with head coach Ange Postecoglou(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Wilson does not want to leave Forest in the lurch, but by the same token, the former Rangers supremo believes he can improve Newcastle. Wilson will be a key figure...