Manchester United Target Newcastle’s Ashworth for Sporting Director Role
Manchester United are reportedly setting their sights on Dan Ashworth, Newcastle United’s sporting director, as they prepare to make significant changes to their football operations. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new regime at Old Trafford beginning to take shape, Ashworth has emerged as the club’s top choice for the role of sporting director. Although no formal approach has been made to Newcastle yet, it is expected that one will follow soon. Newcastle are said to be bracing themselves for contact, especially after the Premier League gave the green light to Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a 25% stake in Manchester United. The deal is set to be officially confirmed later this week, and it is believed that Ratcliffe and his Ineos team are planning to overhaul the club’s structure as part of their long-term vision.
According to The Athletic, developments could move quickly, with Ashworth reportedly open to the idea of joining United’s football operations under Ineos. Given that United and Ineos have been sharing this information, it is widely speculated that they are confident in their ability to secure Ashworth’s services.
Ashworth’s Potential Impact at Old Trafford
Ashworth comes with a stellar reputation as a keen-eyed talent spotter, having played a pivotal role in Newcastle’s transfer strategy since his arrival from Brighton, where he previously served as technical director. His expertise has been integral in Newcastle’s resurgence, and his move to Old Trafford would be seen as a significant coup for Manchester United. Arriving at Newcastle in February 2022, Ashworth has had a major influence on the club’s player recruitment and overall football strategy. Should he make the switch to United, he would likely be placed on gardening leave for the remainder of the season, effectively ruling him out of Newcastle’s summer planning.
This potential appointment follows another high-profile move by Ineos, with Omar Berrada recently making the switch from Manchester City to United, further signalling the club’s intention to rebuild their structure under Ratcliffe’s guidance. Ashworth’s experience, especially in shaping transfer policies at both Brighton and Newcastle, could be key to transforming Manchester United’s fortunes. His ability to spot emerging talent and construct efficient recruitment strategies aligns with Ineos’ vision of modernising the club’s approach to football operations.
Manchester United and Tottenham Target Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, with both clubs keen to secure his services at the end of the season. The 21-year-old has impressed this term, making 21 starts in the Premier League under the guidance of manager Sean Dyche, who clearly values the young defender. However, the situation at Everton could heavily influence Branthwaite’s future. Currently sitting 18th in the Premier League table, the Toffees face the threat of relegation, which could force them into selling key players to ease financial pressures.
According to the Daily Mail, both United and Spurs are closely monitoring Branthwaite’s situation, with both clubs eager to bolster their defensive options, particularly with young, homegrown talent. Given his age and performances, Branthwaite fits the profile of a promising defender who could develop into a long-term asset for either side. The battle for Branthwaite’s signature will likely intensify as the season progresses, with his performances under scrutiny and Everton’s fate hanging in the balance. Should Everton fail to escape the relegation zone, their desperation for funds may give United and Tottenham the upper hand in negotiations.