Jose Mourinho met and shook hands with Newcastle chairman Yasir al-Rumayyan at the weekend.

The pair crossed paths at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and, while there is no suggestion that the pair were there to discuss replacing Eddie Howe, talkSPORT claim that al-Rumayyan and the Magpies owners are “huge fans” of Mourinho.

It adds fuel to the fire that the former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham manager could be considered as a potential managerial candidate in the future.

Over the past few months, there have been reports in both the Italian and French press that Mourinho would be in the running to succeed Howe at St James’ Park.

The 61-year-old left Roma in January after two and a half years in charge. He is currently a free agent looking for a new job.

Mourinho is ready to get back into management straight away

Whilst he was at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Portuguese coach was questioned on whether he was interested in returning to the dugout. Mourinho was unequivocal in his response:

“I’m not in rest mode, I want to work. I just don’t want to make the wrong decision. I have to wait for the right one and the one that motivates me. If I could work tomorrow, I would work tomorrow.”

“I hope [to be back managing soon]. Roma was great to get to two European finals in two years and that’s hard. But now I have to wait for the right opportunity. I want to work tomorrow if possible, but I don’t want to make the wrong decision.”

Is Howe’s job under threat at Newcastle?

As mentioned, stories about potential replacements for Howe have begun to multiply since the start of the year.

The Magpies’ form has fed the rumours. They are currently 10th in the table and you would think that the team will have to finish the campaign strongly for Howe to keep his position.

You can watch the documentary – Newcastle United: The Road Back To Europe on Shots! TV here