Man United news: 'Big' update on Dan Ashworth talks - sources

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

Published on:

29 Apr 2024, 4:00 pm

Man United still plan to have Dan Ashworth in place for the summer transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.

Newcastle United confirmed in February that Ashworth, 53, had been placed on gardening leave after accepting a sporting director role at Old Trafford.

However, the clubs have since been unable to agree on a compensation fee to allow him to start work on the Sir Jim Ratcliffe project at Man United.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that there has been "no movement" in negotiations in recent weeks but there is a "big" expectation a deal wi be agreed soon.

Talks are ongoing between both sides and sources say that Newcastle are likely to “compromise” amid widespread reports of demands reaching £20million.

'No movement' in Ashworth negotiations at Man United

Ashworth is under contract until June 2026 and it is believed the Tyneside club are unwilling to let him go for a knockdown figure.

United are keen to make him the latest part of their overhaul under Ratcliffe.

It is believed Ashworth will lead recruitment at Old Trafford when he arrives, with Jason Wilcox - who has already joined the club from Southampton - working under him.

Football Insider revealed last week (25 April) that Man United are plotting to sign a new centre-back, central midfielder and striker in the summer.

(Credit: Getty Images)

Sources say Ashworth and Wilcox feel the spine of Erik ten Hag's side needs radical improvement in the off-season.

Man United sit sixth in the Premier League after drawing 1-1 against Burnley on Saturday (27 April).

In other news, United work on agreeing early defender deal.

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