Scottish Rugby believe having one of their key coaches with access to Red Bull’s sporting operation will only be of benefit to his existing work with the national team.

The need for a third professional team – or closer links to a team in England – has been a talking point in Scottish rugby, though there has been no dialogue on that as yet.

“Gregor is a knowledge fiend who has always tried to learn from different sport in different parts of the world,” said a source close to the union.

“This is just a continuation of that. He’s scratching a development itch and the SRU will get the benefits of it with a connection with a giant sporting brand.”

As a player, utility back Townsend played in Australia, England, France and his native Scotland.

Steve Diamond’s Newcastle finished 10th in last season’s Premiership and opened the new campaign with a home defeat by Saracens.