Manager Eddie Howe wants Newcastle United to move fast to find a new sporting director.
The Magpies were unable to convince Crystal Palace supremo Dougie Freedman to join.
He has penned an extension to his Palace deal that includes a massive wage rise.
Howe told Chronicle Live: "For me, it is a vital appointment. We need to get the right person and ideally quickly.
"So much happens quickly at a football club. Every transfer window is hugely important. My preference would be that is sorted as quickly as it can be."
Howe added on imminent transfers: "No, nothing close. I am a step removed from everything because we are out here, time difference plays a part. I am not fully up to date. But I don't think anything is close."
On Nick Pope remaining at the club, he finished: "Yeah absolutely (huge part to play).
That (he is unsettled) has not come from anyone connected with the football club, I can assure you of that. Nick is a vital part of what we are doing."