Dan Ashworth is going to leave Newcastle United for Manchester United – it is a case of ‘when’ rather than ‘if’.
The 52-year-old has been a target for Manchester United for months, but the story burst into life last week.
It began with fears that Dan Ashworth would be leaving St James’ Park for Old Trafford, and now those fears are very real.
He was on Tyneside to see Newcastle’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday, and 24 hours later he was placed on gardening leave.
His time as Newcastle United Sporting Director appears to be over, but when he goes to Man United remains to be seen.
That is because the Magpies are looking for a huge compensation package from the Red Devils. Ashworth could cost them up to £20million, which is a crazy fee for a behind the scenes figure.
The ball is now in Man United’s court, and Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on what they are going to do.
What Fabrizio Romano has heard about Dan Ashworth to Manchester United
Romano has taken to X on Monday morning to provide an update on Man United’s stance regarding Ashworth.
He wrote: “Manchester United will make formal proposal to Newcastle soon as they will try to negotiate compensation to have Dan Ashworth right now. Not easy but talks will take place. It’s over between Ashworth and Newcastle after he said yes to #MUFC project last week, as reported.”
Newcastle standing firm as Man United plan formal move
Romano believes that Man United want Ashworth right now. If that is the case then they better put their hands if their pocket and find some pennies!
They will need to get their chequebook out and pay Newcastle what they want, and the Magpies’ demand of £20million shows that they will not be pushed around.
And nor should they be. If Man United are serious about getting Ashworth then they should pay the asking price. They have thrown ridiculous money at players before, so why not a sporting director.
After the way Man United handled the Jesse Lingard situation two years ago, it is refreshing to see the shoe on the other foot.
Romano states that a formal approach is on its way, and it will be interesting to see exactly how much Man United are willing to pay to get Ashworth immediately.
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