Sir Jim Ratcliffe's U-turn on major Man Utd overhaul risks angering top target

02 January 2024 , 19:09

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe's U-turn on major Man Utd overhaul risks angering top target

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has backtracked on his decision to appoint just one new transfer chief at Manchester United and could swoop for BOTH Paul Mitchell and Dan Ashworth.

The INEOS owner completed a deal to buy 25 percent of Manchester United last month and has already promised an overhaul of the club’s sporting department. John Murtough is currently acting as the club’s director of football but is expected to leave.

Ratcliffe has long had his own candidates in mind for the position. Newcastle ’s Dan Ashworth has regularly been linked with a move to Old Trafford, while former Tottenham and Monaco chief Paul Mitchell is also a name that has been mentioned.

He is available following his exit from Monaco. A statement from the French side confirming his departure read: "Paul Mitchell has helped to revitalise the club's sporting policy by implementing a number of changes, including qualification for the French Cup final and two European qualifiers in three seasons.

"Recently, Paul Mitchell has been involved in ensuring a successful transition of the new team, leaving the club with solid foundations capable of achieving good results in the future. The club would like to thank Paul... for their commitment."

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While Mitchell had reportedly been the frontrunner, it appears that Ratcliffe could alter his plan. According to The I, he could in fact be handed a head of recruitment role, with Ashworth claiming the position as sporting director, in what is effectively a more senior role.

Man United remain interested in Dan Ashworth (Getty Images)

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There is still plenty of work for Sir Dave Brailsford to complete in order to get that plan over the line and a move for Ashworth is difficult. It is suggested that the Red Devils would have to pay a significant compensation package to Newcastle, while the former Brighton chief is currently happy at St James’ Park. Magpies boss Eddie Howe has also underlined Ashworth’s commitment to Newcastle.

Speaking last month, he said: “Of course I've spoken to Dan, but not necessarily about that [Man United interest]. It's very difficult to comment on speculation, whether that be a player or someone in Dan's position. I've got no doubt that Dan is here for the long-term, but it's probably a question for Dan rather than me.”

Brailsford however does have a strong relationship with Ashworth. The latter invited the new Man Utd chief to address the Newcastle squad after his own arrival at St James’ Park.

There could potentially be movement sooner rather than later. Brailsford and Ratcliffe were at Old Trafford on Monday for meetings with staff. As Ratcliffe and Brailsford continue to search for a new director of football, Erik ten Hag ’s side take a break from their Premier League commitments. The Red Devils take on Wigan Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup next Monday.

Daniel Orme