Manchester United and Newcastle aim for swift conclusion over Dan Ashworth agreement

Manchester United are trying to strike a deal to bring Dan Ashworth to the club as sporting director after being identified as INEOS’ No. 1 target for the role.

It is believed that no alternatives have been contacted for the role because Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS Sport CEO Jean-Claude Blanc and Sir Dave Brailsford are convinced Ashworth is the right man to take United forward.

Ratcliffe is now officially a co-owner of Manchester United after his minority stake of 27.7% was confirmed on Tuesday night.

Now, Ratcliffe is expected to accelerate some of the jobs he wants to get done at the club. One of them will be hiring Ashworth to focus on recruitment and football performance.

According to Mike Keegan of the Daily Mail, United and Newcastle are expected to reach an agreement over Ashworth in the coming days.

United made a formal approach to Newcastle and a swift conclusion is the preference of all parties, as per the report, though a lengthy period of gardening leave is probable.

We need clarity one way or another when it comes to Ashworth since his role is a significant one.

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