Arsenal chief heading to Newcastle United in a sensational move

According to the Daily Mail, Vinai Venkatesham, former Arsenal CEO, is in the race to become Newcastle United’s new CEO.

The 43-year-old departed Arsenal this summer after being with the club since 2010, stating a desire to explore a new challenge, and he might possibly return to the Premier League in the coming weeks.

Newcastle announced in September that CEO Darren Eales would step down after being diagnosed with a persistent form of blood cancer.

Venkatesham could succeed him, as the Magpies perform a thorough recruitment process employing external professionals, with their owners expected to make an appointment.

The former Arsenal chief joined the club as head of global partnerships, rising to managing director in 2018 after Ivan Gazidis moved for AC Milan, and becoming CEO in 2020.

The British-Indian football administrator formerly served as their chief commercial officer and was instrumental in developing their women’s team.

He is a non-executive director of the British Olympic Association and is well-known in the football industry. He also serves on the UEFA club competitions committee and the European Club Association board.

Venkatesham also worked on the London 2012 Olympics and has extensive business experience.

Newcastle may use his abilities as a trained management accountant in their efforts to meet profit and sustainability targets, and it will be interesting to see whether he is chosen for the position.

The Toons are trying to establish themselves as a consistent top-four Premier League team and frequent contenders for major trophies, and Venkatesham offers much-needed experience from his time at Arsenal.