Former Liverpool Director Ian Ayre Favourite for Newcastle Chief Executive Role

Former Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre is the favourite to become Newcastle United's chief executive once their takeover is complete, after ex-Magpies chairman Chris Mort turned down the role.

Newcastle are currently in the midst of a potential £300m takeover from a consortium led by Magpies fan Amanda Staveley.

The takeover is financed by the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman's Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The takeover completion has been edging closer over the last fortnight, and according to the ​Times, a potential new boardroom is beginning to take shape.

Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who runs the PIF, is expected to be installed as chairman while Staveley, her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, billionaire brothers Simon and David Rueben and David's son James Rueben are to form the new board of directors.

The Times report that Ayre has been 'sounded out' regarding the role of chief executive as part of the St. James' Park boardroom reshuffle.

The 56-year-old was managing director at ​Liverpool between 2011 and 2012, before being promoted to chief executive and remaining in that role until his contract expired in 2017.

During his time at Anfield, Ayre received heavy criticism in 2016 over proposed ticket price increases, which resulted in a mass walkout from fans in protest.

He moved to 1860 Munich after leaving Liverpool, but only lasted eight weeks following disagreements between shareholders and the club's relegation.

Ayre is currently the CEO at MLS side Nashville.

Chris Mort, who was chairman at​ Newcastle between 2007 and 2008 and helped Mike Ashley with his 2007 takeover, had originally been approached for the position, but has turned it down.

A deposit has already been paid to Mike Ashley, meaning the ball is now in the Premier League's hands with the Newcastle takeover. All those involved must first pass the ​Premier League's Owners' and Directors' Test before the takeover can be completed.

Saudi Arabia will have an 80% stake in the club, while Staveley and the Rueben brothers will have a 10% stake each.

The takeover has been ​heavily criticised due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record