There is now fear that key Newcastle figure could leave St James’ Park soon

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Newcastle United are building an incredible team for the present and the future, but the man pulling the strings behind the scenes is at risk of leaving soon.

Toon Sporting Director Dan Ashworth is the man who calls the footballing shots at St James’ Park, tasked with giving Eddie Howe the tools he needs to be successful on the pitch.

He also oversees the academy, ensuring that each player has a clear path to the senior side and is playing in a way that is aligned with how the first-team operate. He is tasked with bringing youngsters to Tyneside, with the view that they could save the club millions of pounds in the future.

Ashworth has been in the job at St James’ Park for more than a year now, and he has already had a huge impact. Getting him from Brighton was a statement of intent, with the former FA chief widely respected for his ability behind the scenes.

He is exactly what Manchester United need, which is why the Red Devils are considering a move for the 52-year-old.

They are in the midst of a takeover, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe set to buy 25% of the club. When that happens, Ratcliffe will oversee multiple changes at Old Trafford, one of which could be Ashworth taking charge of the rebuild.

He has a close relationship with Ratcliffe’s right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford, who is planning to try and tempt Ashworth to leave Newcastle.

The hope has been that he will turn down any approach and remain at St James’ Park, but a new report from iNews casts doubt over that.

Fear Dan Ashworth could leave Newcastle for Manchester United

According to iNews, there is now a fear from people ‘close to the situation’ that Ashworth will leave Newcastle if Manchester United make their move.

That would be a huge blow to Newcastle, who worked tirelessly to bring Ashworth to the club back in 2022. He was a crucial hire, and has already had a seismic impact in the North East.

But his role on Tyneside is suddenly under threat, with fear emerging that he could pack his bags and take his talents to Manchester United. They certainly need someone like him, as they are in disarray behind the scenes.

It would be devastating if Ashworth were to join Manchester United, as he is only just getting started at Newcastle. The project is still in its infancy, after all.

If he does go, the Magpies will have to find a replacement. It was reported over the weekend that Bournemouth technical director Richard Hughes could be a target if Ashworth leaves.