Manchester United agree £36m deal for Newcastle United transfer target after Dan Ashworth 'intel'

Twenty months after being appointed as Newcastle’s sporting director, Ashworth was placed on gardening leave in February. He then had to wait five months before beginning the same role at Old Trafford as the two clubs bickered over a suitable compensation package.

Fast forward another five months, and Ashworth is out of work. On Sunday, a short statement by the Red Devils on Sunday confirmed: “Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement.

“We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future.”

Ashworth’s shock exit comes just six weeks after Erik ten Hag was sacked as manager. Ashworth worked closely with the Dutchman during the summer transfer window, overseeing around £200million worth of investment. That, however, hasn’t translated onto the pitch with the club sitting 13th in the Premier League table after 15 games.

As per The Athletic, signings such as Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt were recommended by ten Hag though others were ‘club-led’, including the £36.5million arrival of Zirkzee from Serie A side Bologna. It’s claimed the 23-year-old was on Newcastle’s list of potential transfers at the start of the year - when Ashworth was still in position at St James’ Park.

Indeed, head coach Eddie Howe previously admitted concerns about Ashworth having intel on Newcastle’s transfer targets.

“Your concerns are relevant,’ said Howe when Ashworth’s access to club secrets was raised. “I don't know quite how much I can say on that, but I share your feelings. That’s why I say he’s in a position of power, with a lot of intelligence and information. That’s why it’s a slightly unusual situation.”

Newcastle replaced Ashworth with Paul Mitchell, who was unable to oversee any major summer signings. The Magpies chased Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi during the final weeks of the window but refused to meet his £70m asking price.

Ahead of January, sources at Newcastle have warned it could be a quiet month as Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) continue to significantly limit their spending.