Newcastle Sporting Director Dan Ashworth is currently playing hardball about his possible exit, indicating that Manchester United’s pursuit of him has not gone down well in the northeast. Ashworth, 52, a former employee of the FA, has been placed on gardening leave while talks continue. If a compromise cannot be reached, he may not be available to United until his contract expires in 2025.
Newcastle officials are reportedly “furious” at Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s approach, per a Times report. Additionally, they have sought £15 million in compensation—a sum practically unheard of for a person in that position—for his early release.
Additionally, it has been alleged that Ashworth’s former access to the club’s computer programs and scouting reports has been stopped by the club. The action is an attempt to prevent him from disclosing to United important details about Newcastle’s internal organization and transfer strategy should he decide to move.
Ratcliffe will be in limbo for almost 20 months unless he is willing to pay Ashworth’s fee. Claims that United has not yet made an official proposal to Newcastle appear to be the source of their ire, as Ashworth himself informed club officials over the weekend that he planned to transfer.
The Newcastle manager, Eddie Howe, called the scenario “unusual” during his pregame press conference on Friday before the team’s match against Bournemouth, but he also stated that the team will handle the possible blow of Ashworth leaving. “Football always moves on very quickly and I say that regarding the manager’s position,” he stated.
“As a massive football team, Newcastle will keep up its excellent work ethic. We continue because we have some incredibly talented individuals here in every field. A plan for succession must exist. For everybody. The board above has a plan in place.”
Following a three-month gardening leave, Ashworth was employed by Premier League team Brighton when he joined Newcastle in June 2022. The result of that action was a £4 million compensation charge, which is slightly more than a fourth of what United is being asked to pay this time.
In his brief stint, Ashworth was instrumental in securing a lengthier contract for Howe. When the team qualified for the Champions League in his first full season as manager, it appeared like the decision had paid off.
But Financial Fair Play limitations have limited their expenditure this season. Sandro Tonali, who cost the club £59 million to acquire from AC Milan, suffered a setback when he was suspended from football for ten months for breaking Italian wagering laws.