Report: Newcastle aim to strike Dan Ashworth compensation with Brighton

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Newcastle United have hit a hurdle in their attempts to announce Dan Ashworth as their new director of football.

The 50-year-old appears to be all set to join the Magpies after Monday’s developments. Brighton confirmed that Ashworth was resigning to take a similar role at another Premier League club.

It then became widely reported that the Premier League club in question is Newcastle, which is no surprise given the pre-Christmas rumours that he could be on his way to St James’ Park.

He’ll be a sensational appointment for Newcastle, as the club look to lay the foundations for a successful future.

However, when he arrives at the club remains to be seen.

Newcastle and Brighton ‘some distance’ away in compensation figure

Following his resignation, Ashworth is set to spend a period of time on gardening leave. The Athletic report that Ashworth’s notice period could extend beyond this summer’s transfer window.

That’s why Newcastle are looking to strike a compensation agreement with Brighton. That would allow Ashworth to join the Magpies before his gardening leave is set to end.

However, the Athletic report that the two clubs are ‘some distance’ apart from agreeing a fee.

The pressure is on Newcastle to produce a compensation package that Brighton deem acceptable. The Seagulls are in a position of power, as they’re already resigned to losing Ashworth after he…resigned.

How much are Newcastle willing to pay to land Ashworth now? That’s the question Brighton will be asking Amanda Staveley and co.

The Magpies need Ashworth to arrive as soon as possible. His appointment is going to be pivotal, and the sooner he arrives the better.

Once he’s on board, he can get to work with making a blueprint for how the club will operate in the coming years, and how it will make the most of the sudden wealth available to them.

Going through the summer transfer window without a director of football is almost unthinkable, so Newcastle simply have to put their hand in their pocket and pay Brighton a fair sum. Then again, that’s easier said than done when it’s not your money…