Published on 16.02.2024
Manchester United has made an approach to Dan Ashworth, the sporting director of Newcastle, in hopes of bringing him on board.
Ashworth is known for his close relationship with Sir Dave Brailsford, the head of sport at Ineos. The two clubs have yet to begin discussions regarding compensation.
If an agreement is reached, it would be a significant move for Ineos, who are set to confirm their 25% ownership stake in Manchester United early next week. Ashworth has expressed interest in joining Old Trafford due to his previous connection with Brailsford during his time at the Football Association (FA).
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 15, 2024
Dan Ashworth has already said yes to Manchester United. He's prepared to accept their proposal as it's considered big opportunity & project.
Understand Man United are intentioned to negotiate and pay compensation to Newcastle; they absolutely want Ashworth now, not in 2025. pic.twitter.com/Ka2pHQzFnh
Not only will Brailsford and Jean Claude Blanc take seats on the football club’s board, but they have also collaborated with the Glazer family to bring Omar Berrada from Manchester City as the new chief executive. Currently on gardening leave, Berrada is expected to assume his role in the summer.
It is likely that Ashworth will also need to serve a period of leave before officially joining Manchester United since he had previously done so when transitioning from Brighton to Newcastle back in 2022.
Known for his expertise in football management, the 52-year-old is widely regarded as one of the top directors in the sport. He played a crucial role in England’s remarkable achievements at youth level back in 2017, where they emerged victorious in both the Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups.
With his involvement in the appointment of Graham Potter as manager, he played a crucial role in Brighton’s ascent through the Premier League after Chris Hughton’s departure.
Further to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s pursuit of Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth, another man on Manchester United's radar is Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 15, 2024pic.twitter.com/8UKCa4ghoo
Assuming the deal is finalized, Ashworth will likely be granted significant authority at United.
Brailsford achieved unparalleled success with British cycling on the track before transitioning to road racing with Ineos’ team, formerly known as Sky.
While he understands the demands of elite sports, he also recognizes the importance of having football expertise.
In recent years, United’s recruitment has been subpar, as acknowledged by former chief executive Richard Arnold who openly admitted that the club had wasted £1bn.
The acquisition of Antony, a 23-year-old winger from Brazil and now United’s second most expensive signing after Paul Pogba, suggests that things have not improved since Erik ten Hag took over as manager.
Ashworth is also expected to play a significant role in shaping and enhancing the club’s scouting systems.
