Newcastle announce Dan Ashworth departure, but Manchester United must pay to poach highly-rated sporting director

Newcastle United have announced the departure of sporting director Dan Ashworth ahead of his move to Manchester United.

The highly-rated executive is expected to be poached by new Red Devils co-owner Jim Ratcliffe as part of his backroom reshuffle.

However, Ashworth has been placed in gardening licenseand will not be able to accept a new job until 2026, unless manchester united extra payment.

In a statement, the Magpies said: “Newcastle UnitedEdit can announce that Daniel Ashworth A garden leave period has begun.

CEO Darren Eales added: “We are naturally disappointed that Dan has decided to leave, however our exciting journey is not stopping and the process to recruit a new sporting director will begin immediately.

“We thank Dan for his efforts at Newcastle United and wish him and his family the best for the future.”

Newcastle are seeking significant compensation should Ashworth return to work, with a quoted fee of £10m.

A deal is likely to be agreed between the two Premier League rivals, with Ratcliffe wanting the former England and Brighton manager to lead his summer spending.

Ratcliffe, the Monaco-based INEOS billionaire, bought a 25 per cent stake in his boyhood club on December 24 and has since received ownership approval from the Premier League and the Football Association.

Erik ten HagThe team was inactive in the January transfer window in terms of income, but is expected to be busy in the summer after a series of changes in the boardroom.

The deal is widely regarded as a major coup, with Ashworth playing his part in England becoming regular rivals in major tournaments, and Brighton becoming a top-half Premier League team and masters of the transfer market.

He is also credited with helping Newcastle secure a number of important signings, including Alejandro IsakNick Pope and Anthony Gordon, despite being with the Magpies for just under two years.

Newcastle coach Eddie Howe He had previously expressed concern about the departure, saying: “Yes, it is quite an unusual situation.

“Normally there is speculation about player transfers, this is very different. Whatever happens, we want a quick resolution.

“It's difficult because when you're in that role you need longevity to really see the fruits of your labor, it's a long-term position.

“I think the people who have done better in the Premier League over time have always had a period of stability.

“Change takes a long time in any football club for those processes to be exactly how you want them to be.”