Reports indicate that negotiations between Manchester United and Newcastle United for sporting director Dan Ashworth have hit a significant impasse.
Manchester United is in the midst of revamping its recruitment structure for the upcoming season following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a minority stake in the club. With the appointment of Omar Berrada as chief executive and Jason Wilcox as technical director, the Red Devils are looking to further strengthen their management team.
Amidst this restructuring, Manchester United has set its sights on Ashworth, who has served as Newcastle’s sporting director since 2022. While Ashworth was a key target for Newcastle following the takeover by PIF, his close relationship with Ratcliffe has fueled his desire to join Manchester United.
However, negotiations have hit a roadblock as Newcastle has placed Ashworth on gardening leave and is seeking a substantial compensation package, reportedly around £20 million. Manchester United, on the other hand, is hesitant to meet this hefty demand and has been engaging in discussions with Newcastle to reach a compromise.
Man Utd and Newcastle still have significant differences.
A report from The Telegraph reveals that Manchester United and Newcastle United are still separated by a significant sum, estimated to be at least £13 million.
Newcastle is reported to be seeking approximately £15 million upfront, along with an additional £5 million in add-ons for Ashworth. In contrast, Manchester United is proposing compensation closer to the £2 million mark, which is similar to the fee paid to acquire him from Brighton two years ago and notably less than the reported £4 million at that time.
Furthermore, the report suggests that Manchester United is only willing to offer a slight increase on the £2 million figure and has made undisclosed claims regarding their pursuit of Ashworth.
Unless Newcastle significantly relaxes its stance, Manchester United doesn’t anticipate Ashworth’s arrival before summer. However, they’re prepared to be patient if necessary.
While United might consider a slight increase on the £2 million compensation if it expedites Ashworth’s arrival, they won’t yield to pressure. With Jason Wilcox appointed as technical director and negotiations settled with Southampton, United is willing to wait until autumn or the end of the year for Ashworth.
Privately, United, operating on a tight budget this summer, believes the additional £10 million-plus required to shorten Ashworth’s gardening leave would be better spent on player acquisitions. Wilcox will spearhead this summer’s transfer activities, supported by CEO Omar Berrada, who has expertise in football negotiations and recruitment from his time working closely with Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain.