Controversial Magpies owner Mike Ashley made Steve McClaren his No.1 choice to take charge six months ago and is confident of landing his man.
It is understood McClaren has set his heart on bossing the troubled club and will walk out on the Rams if he can't lead them into the Premier League.
Starsport understands it all hinges on what happens at the iPro Stadium between now and the end of the season.
The Rams are currently in fifth place in the Championship with two games remaining and are expected to make the play-offs.
McClaren is a close friend of Magpies chief scout Graham Carr who, along with managing director Lee Charnley, has been charged with finding the next head coach.
It is understood billionaire businessman Ashley will have to fork out around £2m in compensation to land McClaren.
The former Manchester United assistant signed a new deal with the Rams at the start of this season.