Dan Ashworth is the leading candidate to take over as sporting director at Manchester United, writes The Athletic. The 52-year-old Englishman must be released from Newcastle United, which has not yet been approached.

United are expected to want to do business quickly with Newcastle, as Ashworth is reportedly open to a move to Old Trafford. However, that operation will not be easy.

Newcastle has the right to keep Ashworth to his contract. Moreover, he currently plays an important role at the Magpieswhich means that Newcastle is probably not keen on his departure.

Ashworth has built a strong reputation in England as an 'astute talent seeker'. Should he actually be appointed to Man United, he would play a crucial role in recruiting players.

After his active career – he played briefly for Eastbourne Town – Ashworth was appointed head of Peterborough United's youth academy in 2000. Four years later he moved to West Bromwich Albion, where he was later promoted to sporting director.

In the years that followed, Ashworth would hold various positions within English football. He joined the English Football Association in 2012 and played a key role in the success of both the men's and women's national teams.

In September 2018, Ashworth announced that he had resigned from his role at the FA to take up a position as technical director at Brighton & Hove Albion. He has been working in the same role at Newcastle since February 2022.

Big spender

It has been good doing business at Newcastle United so far for Ashworth, as he had a well-filled wallet at his disposal. He was responsible for the four most expensive incoming transfers in club history.

Alexander Isak (70m), Sandro Tonali (64m), Anthony Gordon (45m) and Harvey Barnes (44m) were all signed during Ashworth's time in charge at St. James' Park.

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