Newcastle ‘frustrate’ Manchester United transfer plans with latest Dan Ashworth update

Manchester United’s transfer preparations have hit a wall amid the ongoing Dan Ashworth saga, according to reports.

Newcastle United remain deadlocked with the Red Devils over a compensation package for the sporting director. As it stands, Ashworth remains on gardening leave after signalling his desire to leave in February.

The former Brighton chief only arrived on Tyneside less than two years ago but will join Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos-backed revolution at Old Trafford. However, when that will be is yet to be decided and Ashworth, currently, must wait until January 2026.

That is unless Man United can breach the impasse with Toon chiefs over the compensation. Newcastle initially held out for £20million and have shown no sign of lowering their demands.

The search for a replacement has also proven difficult, with the Magpies reportedly being rejected by Crystal Palace chief Dougie Freedman. As for Ashworth, his situation has threatened to turn ugly as arbitration is expected to try and force a move.

ESPN now report that Man United’s transfer plans have hit a major speed bump as they expected Ashworth in the building ahead of the summer window. Old Trafford insiders have accepted their recruitment will not be at its full potential without the sporting director, regarded as one of the best in the business.

From Newcastle’s perspective, no successor means head of recruitment Steve Nickson will take a more hands-on role. He worked alongside Eddie Howe effectively to identify targets in the early post-takeover days, with the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier and Sven Botman joining the club.