A compensation package still stands between Newcastle United and Dan Ashworth.
The 51-year-old left Brighton earlier this year, amid claims he was going to take a similar job at St James’ Park. He’s set to become the club’s new sporting director.
Ever since his Amex departure, Ashworth has been on gardening leave. Despite agreeing to join Newcastle, he must serve a notice period following his Brighton resignation.
That notice period runs until November, meaning Ashworth might not start working with the Magpies until the end of the year.
He can join Newcastle early, but only if the new owners can agree compensation with Brighton. And there lies the problem.
Frustration for Newcastle over Dan Ashworth compensation problem
According to the Daily Mail, the Seagulls want £5million to end Ashworth’s notice period early. That appears to be too much for Newcastle, who are reportedly frustrated by Brighton’s demands.
The Magpies do not want to pay inflated fees, with clubs looking to exploit their newfound wealth. However, you can see why Brighton are asking for an inflated fee. They’re losing a key member of staff to a Premier League rival who are widely known to suddenly have incredibly wealthy owners.
This appears to have created a stand off. And that makes it all the more likely that Newcastle will have to wait until the end of the year to appoint Ashworth.
Is that the end of the world? Absolutely not. Newcastle proved during January that they can operate without a sporting director.
Short term, we can live without Ashworth. His job will be to improve the club long term, making his arrival all the more exciting. As they say, good things come to those who wait.
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