Dan Ashworth has resigned from his role at Brighton and Hove Albion amid rumours he could be on his way to Newcastle.
The 50-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to St James’ Park, and it looks like those rumours are set to become a reality.
One week after the transfer window closed, it appears Newcastle are finally getting the director of football they need.
Ashworth was first linked with the Magpies back in December by the Athletic. Now a significant announcement from the South Coast suggests he’s heading to the North East.
Brighton confirm Dan Ashworth is set to join another Premier League club
The Seagulls confirmed on Monday morning that Ashworth is leaving the Amex Stadium to ‘take a similar role at another Premier League club’.
In the statement, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said: “We are sorry to learn of Dan’s decision. He’s been an important part of the club’s senior management team since joining us from The FA, and has made a significant contribution to our club’s progress in the Premier League and Women’s Super League.
“On a personal level, I will be sad to see Dan leave as we’d developed a close day to day working relationship. Dan’s been an excellent colleague and has become a good friend as well. I wish Dan and his family well for the future.
“However, as is the case with all top-quality people in any industry, we are always conscious of the risk of losing key staff to a rival.”
Ashworth would be an exciting appointment by Newcastle
Ever since the takeover went through and rumours of a director of football arriving emerged, the Magpies have been linked with some big names.
There was talk of the former Chelsea chief Michael Emenalo, while Liverpool’s transfer guru Michael Edwards was also linked.
But it looks like Ashworth is the man who Newcastle have decided to go with. The Telegraph state that a formal announcement from Newcastle is ‘imminent’. And what an appointment he’ll be, assuming this deal goes through.
Ashworth has a wonderful reputation in the game, particularly for his work with the FA and England. But he’s done a brilliant job at Brighton too, helping build a talented team for Graham Potter without spending an absolute fortune.
He’ll have more money to work with at St James’ Park, and will be under huge pressure to get things right. But his signings have helped Brighton play an exciting brand of football, and hopefully he can do the same for Eddie Howe and Newcastle.
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