Manchester United’s new minority shareholder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has been leading an overhaul of the football operations at Old Trafford. As part of this restructuring, United has set its sights on Newcastle United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth. However, sources have revealed that United is hesitant to meet Newcastle’s demands for what they consider to be excessive compensation for Ashworth’s services.
Ashworth has already informed Newcastle of his desire to join United, leading the club to place him on gardening leave. Newcastle’s CEO, Darren Eales, expressed disappointment at Ashworth’s decision but emphasized that the search for a new sporting director would commence immediately. The club acknowledged Ashworth’s contributions and wished him well for the future.
Newcastle is adamant about protecting its interests, citing Ashworth’s contract situation as leverage. The club could demand a fee exceeding £10 million ($12.6m) from United. Reports suggest that Newcastle may ask for a total fee ranging from £15m to £20m. However, United is wary of breaching profit and sustainability regulations and aims to avoid exacerbating Newcastle’s financial struggles at the expense of their own. Negotiations are ongoing, with United leaning towards paying a reduced compensation amount while Ashworth remains on gardening leave.
Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe, expressed hopes for a prompt resolution to the situation but voiced concerns about Ashworth potentially sharing sensitive information with United. Howe acknowledged Ashworth’s valuable insights and intelligence, underscoring the potential impact of his departure on Newcastle’s operations. Despite the uncertainty, United has already begun preparations for the upcoming summer transfer window under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag and football director John Murtough.
As United navigates the complexities of the pursuit for Ashworth, they are also contemplating additional appointments to bolster their recruitment department. Southampton’s Jason Wilcox and Brighton’s Sam Jewell have emerged as potential targets for United. With an imminent approach for Ashworth, United is bracing for further developments in their pursuit of new personnel to strengthen their football operations.
This tumultuous saga highlights the intricate dynamics involved in the high-stakes world of football management and recruitment. While United seeks to enhance their infrastructure and competitiveness, Newcastle must navigate the consequences of Ashworth’s potential departure. As negotiations continue and both clubs strategize their next moves, the outcome of this pursuit could have lasting implications for the future of football operations at both Manchester United and Newcastle United.
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