The Dan Ashworth saga drags on and on, with Manchester United still unable to reach an agreement with Newcastle United.
Their dream of having Dan Ashworth in place ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window is not going to become a reality, unless there is a remarkable turn of events in the next 24 hours.
In truth, Newcastle United have never wanted to let Ashworth start work at Old Trafford this summer. And that is understandable, given the fact he has been in and around the club as they plan what transfer business to do ahead of the 2024/25 season.
But the fact that compensation still has not been agreed is ridiculous, with neither side willing to bend.
It was previously reported that Man United did not want to pay the £15million that the Magpies were looking for, insisting that the money would be better spent on transfers during a summer in which finances will be tight.
Man United still unwilling to pay Newcastle what is required for Dan Ashworth
And it would appear that Man United have not changed their stance, with the Telegraph reporting that the Red Devils are no closer to reaching an agreement.
According to the Telegraph, Man United are only willing to pay £3million to buy out Dan Ashworth’s contract.
That is £12million less than what Toon officials want, with the report stating that Newcastle are looking to receive £15million plus add-ons.
Newcastle are not going to budge, and nor should they. And you have to imagine their position is strengthened by Ashworth’s email blunder that emerged last month.
Newcastle hold all the cards
Toon officials are right to hold their nerve, rather than simply wash their hands with Ashworth.
While the media is presenting it as Newcastle holding Man United to ransom, they simply want to be paid what they believe they are owed. If not, Ashworth will remain on gardening leave until the end of 2025, as outlined in his contract.
While Newcastle’s financial demands are pretty outrageous for a behind the scenes figure, the fact that Man United seem unwilling to up their offer is a real surprise.
Given how far apart the two parties are, there seems to be no chance of them meeting in the middle.
I do wonder if PSR comes into the equation, as Newcastle will know that receiving the money they want for Ashworth right now could solve their financial issues. In contrast, paying up could create a similar problem for Man United before June 30th.
Replacement talk goes quiet at Newcastle
It is a messy situation, and one that is complicated by the fact that Newcastle are yet to appoint Ashworth’s successor at St James’ Park.
The club did want that role to go to Dougie Freedman, but he turned down Newcastle’s advances in favour of remaining at Crystal Palace.
Since he rejected the Magpies, Newcastle have held talks with Johannes Spors, but speculation over him, or anyone else for that matter, arriving has gone very quiet at the moment.
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