When compensation is or is not agreed, we will finally know when Dan Ashworth is going to officially leave Newcastle United for Manchester United.
The move is going to happen, it is just a case of when. Newcastle have officially confirmed that they have placed Dan Ashworth on gardening leave, while Man United ponder how much to pay the Magpies.
It has been claimed that Newcastle want £20million in compensation for Ashworth, which is a staggering amount of money. There is surely no way we will get that amount, but it is refreshing to see the club standing its ground rather than rolling over and bowing down to Man United’s demands.
As it stands, Ashworth might not be able to start his new job at Old Trafford until early 2026. Newcastle are well protected in this situation due to Ashworth’s Toon contract, and now the ball is in Man United’s court. They must decide how much they are willing to pay and when they want him to start.
For Newcastle, they have a rough idea when they would realistically be willing to completely see the back of Ashworth.
The earliest Newcastle would be willing to let Dan Ashworth join Manchester United
According to the Athletic, the earliest some people inside Newcastle are willing to let Ashworth start work at Man United is the end of this summer’s transfer window.
That is a sensible stance, as the 52-year-old will surely know all about what the Magpies have planned when it comes to incomings and outgoings. That would potentially put us in a weaker position, as Ashworth and ultimately Man United would know who we were targeting and how much we have to spend.
The end of the summer does make sense to finally let Ashworth start his role at Old Trafford, but only if they pay the required compensation. Man United have made sure the media know just how much they want him and how good he is, so now it is time for them to put their money where their mouth is.
However, that could prove to be an issue, as they are concerned about giving Newcastle such a financial boost that it will aid their profit and sustainability situation.
As the saying goes, you can’t have your cake and eat it.
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