Newcastle United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, was recently placed on gardening leave subsequent to an approach from Manchester United. Having spent less than two years at St James’ Park, Ashworth opted to depart, with Manchester United expressing interest in securing his services for a comparable position at Old Trafford. However, contractual stipulations at Newcastle pose obstacles to a smooth transition between clubs.
Notably, Ashworth’s contract lacks a defined release clause, and his gardening leave is slated to continue until January 2026 unless an agreement is reached between Newcastle and Manchester United for an early termination of the 52-year-old’s contract. Newcastle previously reached such agreements, exemplified by their recruitment of Ashworth in June 2022 following negotiations with Brighton & Hove Albion.
In negotiations with Manchester United, Newcastle has taken a resolute stance, demanding a compensation fee in the vicinity of £21 million. Discussions have progressed in recent days, with co-owner Amanda Staveley leading negotiations on behalf of Newcastle, steadfastly maintaining their valuation. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a newly appointed minority owner at Manchester United, has criticized Newcastle’s demands, characterizing them as ‘silly’.
He said: “A bit silly, personally. I won’t get dragged into that.
“What I do think is completely absurd is suggesting a man who is really good at his job sits in his garden for one and a half years.”
Newcastle United’s recent actions underscore apprehensions regarding the potential ramifications of Dan Ashworth’s intimate familiarity with the club’s transfer tactics, recruitment protocols, and operational strategies now lying within the purview of a competing entity. The disclosure came from Eddie Howe, the head coach of the Magpies, who expressed solidarity with these apprehensions as he readies himself to oversee the club’s transfer activities during the forthcoming summer.
As part of their strategy, Newcastle intends to exclude Ashworth from involvement in any recruitment initiatives across clubs during the upcoming transfer window, aiming to finalize terms with Manchester United that would facilitate his eventual transition to the club later in the year.
The decision to place Ashworth on gardening leave has facilitated progress in negotiations for a fresh contract with Joelinton, the Brazilian midfielder, with both parties reportedly nearing an agreement to extend his tenure at St James’ Park.
Meanwhile, the quest to find a successor to Ashworth remains ongoing. Richard Hughes of AFC Bournemouth has emerged as a potential candidate for the role, particularly as he recently announced his impending departure from his position as technical director at the Vitality Stadium, effective at the conclusion of the current season.