MAN UTD FINALLY AGREE DAN ASHWORTH DEAL AFTER LENGTHY STAND-OFF WITH NEWCASTLE

Manchester United have finally agreed a compensation package with Newcastle for the services of Dan Ashworth.

The two clubs have been locked in talks for months after Ashworth emerged as a key target for United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has overhauled the club's off-field team since acquiring a 27.7 per cent stake in his boyhood club.

And the former Brighton and Football Association chief is now set to be confirmed as the club's new sporting director imminently following a breakthrough in talks.

As first revealed by The Athletic, the agreement brings to an end months of speculation over Ashworth's future. It was previously outlined that both clubs were miles apart in their valuation of Ashworth, who joined the Magpies in 2022.

And it had even seemed as though arbitration would be needed to resolve the deadlock with United only willing to offer £3million in compensation to Newcastle.

But the 53-year-old is now set to complete his protracted switch to Old Trafford, where he will given a broad remit overseeing the club's football performance, recruitment and operations.

A joint statement from the two clubs reads: “Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United. The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future.”

Ashworth will be joined at Old Trafford later this month by Omar Berrada: the club's new chief executive who was poached from Manchester City last season. Jason Wilcox, also formerly of Manchester City, was prised away from Southampton back in April and will report directly to Ashworth in his role as technical director.

Join the debate! How much of a difference will Ashworth make at Man Utd? Let us know here.

Ashworth and the club's new football operations team will now go about supporting Erik ten Hag after Ratcliffe made the decision to keep the Dutchman in his post as manager following a disappointing 2023/24 campaign.

Ten Hag enjoyed a fine maiden season at the helm and did sign off last term with victory in the FA Cup final against Manchester City but will need reinforcements if he is to ensure the Red Devils challenge at the top of Premier League next year.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2024-07-01T07:34:36Z dg43tfdfdgfd