Three managers are currently leading Newcastle's shortlist to replace Rafa Benitez.
Nice's Patrick Vieira, Rangers' Steven Gerrard and Manchester City assistant Mikel Arteta are the leading candidates being considered by Toon, according to the Telegraph.
They are also keen on Eddie Howe but do not believe they can pry him away from Bournemouth.
Vieira and Gerrard both impressed for their clubs last season, while Arteta is viewed as a future successor to Pep Guardiola.
The Magpies have spoken with Vieira previously, before the appointment of Steve McClaren in 2015.
The former Arsenal captain impressed in the interview process and has remained on Newcastle's radar.
