Key Newcastle man set for imminent summer exit

Newcastle United could receive a major blow ahead of the 2024/25 campaign as Manchester United are attempting to lure their Sporting Director Dan Ashworth away. 

Major changes are coming to the Manchester club following the Premier League’s approval of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% stake takeover of the Red Devils, which will see him take control of football operations at Old Trafford.

The INEOS CEO has set about installing the right people into the crucial roles behind the scenes at Man United and for the Sporting Director position, Ratcliffe has his eye on Newcastle’s Ashworth.

Ashworth has a long-standing relationship with Ratcliffe’s right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford and that could play a major role in a potential switch.

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle are braced for Ashworth’s possible departure. No approach has yet been made but the Magpies are keen to seek assurances that he is committed to staying long-term.

Things will likely develop over the coming days and weeks but the noises coming out of both clubs do not sound good for the Tyneside club.