Manchester United are reportedly closing in on the appointment of Newcastle United’s Dan Ashworth as the new sporting director at the club.
Although Ashworth is still contracted with the Magpies, he is United’s top candidate for the position. And there is increasing optimism that he will be hired.
Newcastle are said to be uninterested in bidding farewell with the 52-year-old. But they worry he’s already decided to move to Old Trafford.
According to ESPN, after Omar Berrada was named chief executive, Ashworth would be the club’s second significant hire since Sir Jim Ratcliffe struck a deal to purchase a 25% share.
After serving at Manchester City, Berrada is currently on leave and is anticipated to start the position in the summer.
Ratcliffe’s minority investment is near completion after the Premier League approved the transaction.
The FA’s approval is still pending for United, but this is just a formality. And the deal could be formally confirmed as early as next week.
With Ashworth’s appointment, Ratcliffe and his group—led by Sir Dave Brailsford, INEOS director of sport—will take charge of all aspects of football operations.
Ashworth, who has held positions at the FA, Brighton, and West Brom, will also likely have an impact on other hiring decisions made by the recruitment department.
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Brighton’s head of recruitment, Sam Jewell, has a great admirer in him.
Although United haven’t formally approached Newcastle for Ashworth, they are optimistic that a deal can be reached.
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