Ashworth targeted by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS (Picture: Getty)
Eddie Howe says Newcastle United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth is ‘here for the long-term’ as Manchester United attempt to lure him to Old Trafford.
Ashworth was handed the role at St James’ Park just over a year ago after impressive spells as the FA’s director of elite development and Brighton’s technical director.
Since arriving on Tyneside, he has played a vital role in Newcastle’s development, credited with overseeing moves for Kieran Trippier, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and others.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are close to securing their £1.3billion investment to acquire 25 per cent of Manchester United with overhauling the club’s recruitment department thought to be one of his top priorities.
Ashworth has been identified as a top target at Old Trafford with reports this week suggesting he is ‘increasingly likely’ to join the Red Devils.
Howe however is convinced Ashworth remains committed to the project at Newcastle.
‘Of course I’ve spoken to Dan but not necessarily about that,’ Howe told a press conference on Friday.
Ratcliffe close to acquiring 25 per cent of United (Picture: Getty)
‘It’s very difficult to comment on speculation, whether that be a player or someone in Dan’s position. I’ve got no doubt that Dan is here for the long term but it’s probably a question for Dan rather than me.”
‘I think whenever someone is in the role of importance that Dan is, hugely important and he’s done a really good job in helping us in loads of different ways, building departments, the training ground, he’s connected with everything that goes on in terms of the decision making at the football club.
‘He’s hugely important and has been a really calming influence behind the scenes, his vast experience has really helped.’
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United are looking to major changes in the recruitment department after an abysmal track record over the last 10 years despite spending over £1bn since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.
John Murtough, United’s current head of football, could take up a new role with INEOS officials eager to appoint their own team at board level.
Jean-Claude Blanc, the former Juventus and PSG executive, is expected to replace Richard Arnold as CEO.
MORE : Sir Jim Ratcliffe to make huge job cuts at Manchester United in major restructuring
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