REPORTS emerging are suggesting that Eddie Howe would turn down any move from the potentially newly-vacant Newcastle post in favour of waiting for Saints.

Following the Saudi-backed consortium takeover of the Magpies, it is possible that manager Steve Bruce will be removed from his position and a new gaffer will be found.

The Newcastle job is an attractive prospect with the consortium’s wealth far eclipsing the budgets of even the richest teams in the Premier League, and the world.

Howe is one of the early favourites for the job, according to the bookies.

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But Football Insider are reporting that the former Bournemouth manager isn’t willing to take the job if approached, and will instead bide his time for the Saints post that he thinks might become available.

The 43-year-old has been out of work since his lengthy Bournemouth spell came to an end when they were relegated from the Premier League in July of last year.

Geography was also a key factor in his decision to turn down Scottish giants Celtic following extensive negotiations, with a preference to stay local.

After a long spell on the south-coast, Saints are right on his doorstep and would be an ideal move for the manager.

What do you think of the reports?