Eddie Howe was seen at Newcastle United's Premier League game at Brighton on Saturday, with the visitors close to appointing the former Bournemouth boss as manager.
He was spotted in the Amex stands with Newcastle's part-owner Amanda Staveley.
Howe, 43, has not been in management since leaving the Cherries following their relegation in July 2020.
The Magpies have been without a manager since Steve Bruce left by mutual consent two weeks ago.
Newcastle approached Villarreal manager Unai Emery to succeed Steve Bruce, but he turned them down.
Howe is familiar with Newcastle players Callum Wilson, Ryan Fraser and Matt Ritchie from his time at Bournemouth, having led the club from League One to the Premier League, where they stayed for five seasons.