Kieran Maguire: Newcastle United will make £2m sacrifice to block Man United deal
Newcastle United will be happy to cover Dan Ashworth’s £2million-plus salary to block his move to ‘rivals’ Man United.
That is the view of finance expert Kieran Maguire, who exclusively told Football Insider that Newcastle will recoup the money if their decision helps them finish one position higher in the Premier League.
Ashworth has commenced a 20-month period of gardening leave after quitting his role at Newcastle United.
He has been heavily linked to a director role at Manchester United following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s takeover, but Newcastle are demanding a £20million compensation fee to allow him to join another club.
As revealed by Football Insider, Newcastle will pay over £2million in wages to Dan Ashworth during his gardening leave period.
Newcastle can recoup Dan Ashworth salary by blocking Man United move
Maguire believes Newcastle will be okay with Ashworth’s salary knowing that it will weaken a direct rival for European qualification spots.
“I think Newcastle are willing to take on Ashworth’s salary,” Maguire told Football Insider’s Sean Fisher.
“They see Manchester United as a potential rival competing for Champions League places and placed in the Premier League.
“Each league position was worth £3.1million in prize money last season and that is being increased next season.
“It means that if Newcastle finish one place higher up by denying Ashworth’s move then it pays for itself.“
In other news, Kieran Maguire reveals FFP impact on Newcastle securing monster Dan Ashworth fee
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