19 February 2024 , 15:42
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Newcastle United have confirmed that Dan Ashworth will be leaving the club as he looks to quit the club for a move to Manchester United.
Darren Eales, Newcastle's CEO, said: "We are naturally disappointed that Dan has chosen to leave, however our exciting journey doesn't stop and the process to recruit a new sporting director will begin immediately. We thank Dan for his efforts at Newcastle United and we wish him and his family well for the future."
It is understood that Newcastle are seeking a £20million fee from the Red Devils if they want to buy Ashworth out of his contract. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has identified the Magpies sporting director as one of his major off pitch recruits following his impressive work in recent years.
Ashworth has only been at St James' Park for a short period but aided the club as they finished in the top four last season following some impressive moves in the transfer market. Newcastle added the likes of Alexander Isak as they new regime began with a bang.
Newcastle went after Ashworth after he'd helped Brighton punch well above their weight. The Seagulls appointed Graham Potter, a decision led by Ashworth, and then continued to investment smartly in the market as they unearthed gems like Moises Caicedo, who earned the club a huge profit when he was sold.
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United have already landed Omar Berrada as their new chief executive from rivals Manchester City. Ashworth was their next target as Ratcliffe continues to make major moves within weeks of his arrival, which has seen him take control of the club's football operations.
Newcastle appear to have protected their asset though and it is understood Ashworth cannot work for a direct rival until 2026, unless a major fee is paid. United will not be held to ransom and have little desire to pay the reported £20m fee, which would leave Ashworth on the sidelines.
Dan Ashworth has made an instant impact at Newcastle (Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)Eddie Howe said recently: “Dan’s had a relatively short time here, Newcastle is a huge football club and it will continue to work in a very efficient way regardless of who is here. We’ve got some very, very capable people here in all departments, so we would carry on very smoothly. Since they have come to the football club the board have run it really well.”
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