Craig Hope now shares how much money it would take for Newcastle to let Dan Ashworth leave quickly

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For the first time since the takeover, Newcastle United have lost a big name.

While Dan Ashworth’s move to Manchester United is yet to truly formalise, the sporting director has been placed on gardening leave as Newcastle begin their search for a replacement.

PIF, however, will not be making life easy for the Old Trafford giants.

Indeed, reports have suggested Newcastle are willing to make Ashworth wait until early 2026 to start at his new club unless their demands of £20m are met.

Now, Craig Hope of The Daily Mail has provided some more insight.

Dan Ashworth to Manchester United: Newcastle latest

Speaking in a video posted on his YouTube channel, Hope said: “My understanding at the moment is – and again none of these figures are being confirmed officially – is that somewhere around £15m would see really swift progress. I don’t think Manchester United are going to go there – for now at least.”

Dan Ashworth: PIF holding firm

Sir Jim Ratcliffe might have called Newcastle “silly” for their stance over Ashworth but why on earth wouldn’t PIF make a scene?

Were Ashworth to have joined a rival amid a tacit acceptance behind the scenes at St James’ Park, it would hardly say much about how Newcastle view themselves in comparison to the world’s biggest clubs.

It may seem petty but it’s all about optics. If Ashworth was freely allowed to go and join Man United, what would in-demand players like Bruno Guimaraes think about Newcastle?

Perhaps a compromise will be found in regards to the compensation. Still, PIF are approaching this from a position of strength. They do not need to allow Ashworth to leave for anything other than top price.

Newcastle mean business. They will not be treated for fools by those who think they can weaken them.