Man Utd ‘settle on new sporting director’ as Newcastle dig heels in over Dan Ashworth

Manchester United’s attempt to sign Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth has been unsuccessful.

Manchester United have reportedly chosen Dan Ashworth as the club’s new sporting director, despite finding negotiations with Newcastle United over a compensation package difficult. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is determined to add Ashworth to his new-look sporting hierarchy at Old Trafford, but he may have to wait.

The Red Devils are undergoing significant off-field change after Ratcliffe sealed a £1.3billion deal for a 27.7 per cent stake and control of football operations in February.

This summer, Omar Berrada will become the club’s new chief executive, having previously worked for Manchester City. A sporting director, technical director, and performance director are likely to follow.

Ashworth was chosen for the sporting director post, which he held at Newcastle from June 2022 until February.

He was placed on gardening leave after stating his intention to work on Ratcliffe’s project at Old Trafford, which might postpone his arrival until next year.

The summer transfer window is a critical phase at the start of the INEOS era, therefore the possibility of not having a sporting director in place has prompted speculation that United may look into alternatives.

However, Fabrizio Romano adds that United is content with their decision to pursue Ashworth and would not adjust their plans because Newcastle is putting its heels in.

He claims that the two clubs remain in contact over the 53-year-old, but there is no expected date for a resolution.

Newcastle paid Brighton and Hove Albion around £4m in compensation to lure him to St James’ Park just two years ago. The Magpies are demanding £20m now, which United refuse to pay.

After officially becoming United’s new football kingpin earlier this year, Ratcliffe didn’t hold back when sharing his opinion about Newcastle’s stance. “A bit silly, personally. I won’t get dragged into that,” the 71-year-old tycoon explained.