Bad news for Erik ten Hag as Manchester United give Dan Ashworth ‘strict orders’ amid Newcastle deadlock

Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants Dan Ashworth in the building quickly so he can oversee a potential new manager at Manchester United.

As it stands, the Red Devils remain deadlocked with Newcastle United over a compensation package for the sporting director. Toon chiefs are holding firm - demanding up to £20million for the highly-rated Ashworth.

Losing the 53-year-old threatened to unsettle Newcastle’s season further when the news emerged in February. The Magpies expected Ashworth to be part of the Saudi-backed project for the long run but, less than two years after his appointment, he has already jumped ship.

While still officially on Newcastle’s books, the former Brighton chief was placed on gardening leave until 2026 - legally stopping him from undertaking duties elsewhere. That means Man United could be without their man for three transfer windows - hardly ideal for Ratcliffe as he plans a rebuilding operation.

Meanwhile, the Magpies are meticulously plotting their next appointment as head of recruitment Steve Nickson currently drafts up summer targets. It was reported last week that Ratcliffe met with Toon co-owner Amanda Staveley to try and break the deadlock ahead of the transfer window.

HITC now claim Ratcliffe is anxious about not having Ashworth - ordered to undertake “due diligence” on a possible manager - in place should he pull the trigger on under-fire boss Erik ten Hag. Man United look unlikely to qualify for the Champions League but the FA Cup could provide solace.

Ratcliffe is understood to be undecided on the Dutchman’s future and will allow the rest of the campaign to play out. With other key appointments being made at Old Trafford since the Ineos billionaire assumed sporting control, Ten Hag’s position - worsened by recent results - looks ominous.