Sir Jim Ratcliffe believes Dan Ashworth will be taking on “the ultimate challenge” if he joins Manchester United.
Ashworth, the Newcastle United sporting director, has been placed on gardening leave after telling them of his desire to leave.
In roles with the Football Association as well as the likes of Brighton & Hove Albion and West Bromwich Albion, Ashworth has built a strong reputation in areas such as player recruitment and the establishment of high-performance structures, which would be crucial if his potential move to Old Trafford materialises.
And Ratcliffe, whose minority stake in the club was finally confirmed on Tuesday night, is under no illusions as to the size of the task facing him should he make the switch.
“Dan Ashworth is clearly one of top sporting directors in the world. I have no doubt he is a very capable person,” Ratcliffe said when asked on United’s interest.
“He is interested in Manchester United because it’s the biggest challenge at the biggest club in the world. It would be different at (Manchester) City because you’re maintaining a level. Here it’s a significant rebuilding job.”
Read more from Ratcliffe below
