Manchester United to steal Newcastle United ‘Key Man’

Speculation mounts over significant changes looming at Manchester United as Sir Jim Ratcliffe prepares to initiate transformative alterations within the club, anticipating the approval of his 25% minority investment, while the Glazer family retains control.

The potential shake-up under Ratcliffe’s investment is anticipated to extend to United’s recruitment department, signaling a bid for substantial restructuring within the club.

In this pursuit, the British billionaire has reportedly set sights on Dan Ashworth, the current sporting director at Newcastle United, as a prime target for recruitment.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to be impressed by Ashworth’s impactful tenure at Newcastle, steering the club from a relegation-threatened status to Champions League contention following the Saudi PIF acquisition.

Ashworth’s track record boasts significant roles, having previously served as the director of elite development at the FA and as the technical director at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Of note is Ashworth’s association with Ratcliffe’s close confidant, Sir Dave Brailsford.

The rapport was evident when Ashworth invited Brailsford, the former Team GB cycling chief, to address the Newcastle squad during their pre-season training in Portugal last year. Brailsford’s influence is expected in Ratcliffe’s decisions concerning key appointments.

While Ratcliffe eyes Ashworth for a pivotal role at Old Trafford, sources close to the sporting director suggest contentment in his current position with Newcastle, signaling a potential hurdle in negotiations.

A move from Newcastle to Manchester United would not only mark a significant transfer between clubs but also pose a challenge for the Magpies to retain Ashworth’s services amid Ratcliffe’s interest.

Should Ashworth opt for the new challenge, he would face a substantial task in fortifying United’s squad, identified to be lacking in depth and quality across crucial positions.