Man Utd is getting close to hiring Dan Ashworth, the sporting director of Newcastle.
Dan Ashworth has apparently asked to leave Newcastle, putting him one step closer to joining Manchester United. As part of INEOS’s redesign of the Red Devils’ athletic department, the sporting director for the Magpies is being sought after.
The Premier League and the Football Association have approved Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the head of INEOS, for a 25% stake in United. The Glazers will continue to run the Old Trafford team’s business operations, while the British billionaire will assume leadership of the team’s athletic division.
Ratcliffe is eager to assemble a top group of people behind the scenes. In a significant coup, Omar Berrada has already been lured away from Manchester City. Berrada will take over as CEO of United prior to the 2024–25 season.
Ashworth has reportedly requested to depart Newcastle as Ratcliffe continues to reorganize a disjointed organization, according to The Daily Mail. According to reports, United will now have to talk the 52-year-old out of his Tyneside contract, with a startling two-year gardening leave.
According to certain sources, United could have to pay roughly £10 million to get Ashworth to leave St. James’ Park.
Ashworth is regarded as one of the best sporting directors in the Premier League. The development of the current generation of England players has been greatly aided by the Elite Players’ Performance Plan (EPPP), which he oversaw its implementation in 2012.
Before joining the FA in 2012, Ashworth was a defender for West Brom in the non-league. Before taking on the role of sporting and technical director in 2007, he had worked his way up from aiding academy director Aidy Boothroyd.
In 2019, Ashworth moved from the FA to Brighton. After the Saudi Public Investment Fund was taken over by the majority in 2021, he then relocated to Newcastle.
Ashworth’s loss last week appeared to be accepted by Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. Howe is worried about what knowledge he could bring to Old Trafford.
