Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'eyeing up Dan Ashworth as potential sporting director'

By Devesh Jaganath | 09 December 2023

Man United 'eyeing up Dan Ashworth as potential sporting director'

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Newcastle United's sporting director Dan Ashworth, as part of their effort to improve their recruitment team.

Manchester United are reportedly considering making a move for Newcastle United's sporting director Dan Ashworth, as part of their effort to improve their recruitment team under the guidance of Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Ratcliffe's 25% stake purchase in Man United will see him assume control of the football operations with the help of the director of sport at Ineos, Sir Dave Brailsford.

As a trusted advisor to Ratcliffe, Brailsford is expected to undertake a thorough examination of the club's operations to pinpoint areas requiring improvement.

According to a report from 90min, Ratcliffe, who is on the verge of announcing his 25% stake in Manchester United, aims to overhaul the club's recruitment structure, and Ashworth is being considered as one of the prospective candidates for the role.

The report adds that despite Michael Edwards, the former sporting director of Liverpool, being initially considered for the position, Ashworth has emerged as the favoured choice for Brailsford, given their close working relationship.

In addition to the search for a sporting director, the club is actively seeking a new CEO to succeed the now-departed Richard Arnold.

It is believed that Jean-Claude Blanc, previously associated with Paris Saint-Germain, is currently the leading candidate for the role.

Further potential alterations to Man United's backroom staff may involve the recruitment of Paul Mitchell, formerly associated with Tottenham Hotspur and Monaco, to assume the role of head of recruitment.