Man Utd to poach Newcastle's transfer chief? Magpies sporting director Dan Ashworth first choice for Old Trafford role when Sir Jim Ratcliffe completes partial takeover

Per The Sun, United are considering a move to appoint Ashworth and Newcastle have subsequently identified Richard Hughes, who works for Bournemouth, as his potential replacement. The Magpies expect an approach for Ashworth once Sir Jim Ratcliffe's buy-in at Old Trafford is confirmed.

Ashworth has been with Newcastle since February of 2022 and has also previously worked as a technical director at Brighton. In addition to his club work, he has also worked with England, operating as the FA's director of elite development. He has been linked with United in previous years, though no appointment has yet materialised.

Ashworth was head of the FA's elite development plan when England won the Maurice Burlaz Trophy in 2017. The trophy is awarded to the national association that has the best results in UEFA youth competitions. It was established in 1990 and is awarded every two years; England have only won it once.

If United really are interested, he will have to wait for the ratification of Ratcliffe's buy-in before making a move. In the meantime, Ashworth is likely to be preparing for the January transfer window with Newcastle as the Magpies look to respond to a troubling injury crisis.