"Could arrive..": Craig Hope issues big Newcastle claim that'll leave Howe delighted - opinion

A big Newcastle United claim has been issued regarding their pursuit of Dan Ashworth heading into the summer transfer window… 

The Daily Mail‘s Craig Hope has claimed that the Magpies are now in fresh talks with Premier League rivals Brighton over a deal for the former FA chief ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

He tweeted: “Dan Ashworth could arrive as Newcastle sporting director in time for summer transfer window after negotiations with Brighton reopen.”

The BBC’s Ian Dennis has backed up the claim with an update of his own, tweeting: “Brighton and Hove Albion and Newcastle United close to resolving situation regarding Dan Ashworth. So much so that Ashworth could be in position as #NUFC Sporting Director as early as next week.”

The prospect of the Ashworth being in place for the upcoming transfer window will surely delight the Magpies head coach for multiple reasons.

Firstly, the sporting director can help to build the culture of the club and continue the development off the pitch as well as on it.

Prior to his position at the Amex Stadium, he played an important role in developing England’s youth setup.

Gareth Southgate previously heaped praise on Ashworth for his achievements with the FA, saying: “I told Dan (Ashworth) as we walked in that he should feel really proud. The last time we came to one of these it was in St Petersburg three years ago but this time we walked in as world champions at U17 and U20 and we’ve been to a seniors’ semi-final, so we deserve our place at the table.

“That is a great credit to everyone involved, the backing the FA has given us in building St George’s Park and investing in the teams, to the work being done in youth development and to Dan in particular for putting those plans in place, which