Dan Ashworth’s stance on joining Manchester United from Newcastle United has been revealed.
Newcastle United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, has reportedly shown reluctance towards accepting an offer from Manchester United. Despite being sought after by INEOS, the new minority stakeholders at Man United, Ashworth, who joined Newcastle from Brighton & Hove Albion before the 2022-23 season, is hesitant to leave his current role. His success at St James’ Park and previous accomplishments at clubs like Brighton, England, and West Bromwich Albion have made him a leading candidate for a similar position at Old Trafford.
INEOS’ director of sport, Sir Dave Brailsford, has a longstanding relationship with Ashworth, which has continued during Ashworth’s tenure at Newcastle. The Independent reports that while Ashworth is currently unwilling to make the switch to Manchester United due to his ongoing work at Newcastle, he might be swayed by a substantial financial offer and clearly defined terms.
INEOS, under Brailsford’s leadership, will conduct an eight-week audit at Old Trafford, allowing the new minority owners to plan and assess football operations and necessary appointments. Both Newcastle’s head coach and Dan Ashworth have commented on the Manchester United links. Newcastle’s head coach, Eddie Howe, expressed difficulty in commenting on speculation but emphasized Ashworth’s importance and his belief that Ashworth is committed for the long term. Ashworth himself reaffirmed his dedication to Newcastle, describing the city, club, and project as brilliant and expressing his enjoyment of the challenge.
Despite the absence of a release clause in Ashworth’s contract with Newcastle, Manchester United would need to pay a significant compensation fee to The Magpies due to a 12-month notice period.