adminManchester United have finally agreed a compensation package with Newcastle for the services of Dan Ashworth.
The two clubs have been locked in talks for months after Ashworth emerged as a key target for United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has overhauled the club’s off-field team since acquiring a 27.7 per cent stake in his boyhood club.
And the former Brighton and Football Association chief is now set to be confirmed as the club’s new sporting director imminently following a breakthrough in talks.
As first revealed by The Athletic, the agreement brings to an end months of speculation over Ashworth’s future. It was previously outlined that both clubs were miles apart in their valuation of Ashworth, who joined the Magpies in 2022.
And it had even seemed as though arbitration would be needed to resolve the deadlock with United only willing to offer £3million in compensation to Newcastle.
But the 53-year-old is now set to complete his protracted switch to Old Trafford, where he will given a broad remit overseeing the club’s football performance, recruitment and operations.
Ashworth will be joined at Old Trafford later this month by Omar Berrada: the club’s new chief executive who was poached from Manchester City last season. Jason Wilcox, also formerly of Manchester City, was prised away from Southampton back in April and will report directly to Ashworth in his role as technical director.
United have unveiled their new adidas home kit with new front-of-shirt sponsors for the 2024/25 season – and you can get your hands on it right now.
Ashworth and the club’s new football operations team will now go about supporting Erik ten Hag after Ratcliffe made the decision to keep the Dutchman in his post as manager following a disappointing 2023/24 campaign.
Ten Hag enjoyed a fine maiden season at the helm and did sign off last term with victory in the FA Cup final against Manchester City but will need reinforcements if he is to ensure the Red Devils challenge at the top of Premier League next year.
Drkeem
admin