Dan Ashworth has been placed on gardening leave by Newcastle as they reportedly consider interest from Manchester United for the sporting director position.

Newcastle United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, has been placed on gardening leave amidst rumors of a potential move to Premier League rivals Manchester United. It is believed that Ashworth is the next target for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Dave Brailsford of Ineos, who are nearing completion of their 25% purchase of United. However, Ashworth’s contract with Newcastle reportedly stipulates that he cannot work for a rival club until 2026 without monetary compensation.

Newcastle United’s chief executive, Darren Eales, expressed disappointment at Ashworth’s decision to leave but assured fans that the club’s journey would continue. The process to recruit a new sporting director will begin immediately. Eales thanked Ashworth for his contributions to Newcastle United and wished him and his family well for the future.

Ashworth is widely regarded as one of the best sporting directors in football. He first established a relationship with Dave Brailsford when he was working as the FA’s director of elite development, helping England’s youth teams to under-17 and under-20 World Cup titles in 2017. He was then hired by Brighton as the club’s technical director in 2019, where he played a key role in the hiring of Graham Potter and the team’s rise up the Premier League table.

Following the completion of the Saudi-led consortium takeover of Newcastle, Ashworth was appointed as the club’s technical director in 2022. This move required him to complete gardening leave, much to the disappointment of Brighton’s chairman, Tony Bloom.

Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, addressed the speculation surrounding Ashworth, denying any involvement in the appointment of a sporting director. He emphasized his focus on the team and future plans, stating that he was unaware of any changes in the club’s structure.

As the situation unfolds, Newcastle United will now begin the search for a new sporting director to continue their journey in the Premier League.