Dan Ashworth's two primary aims he would bring to Manchester United as sporting director

Dan Ashworth has already told Manchester United what the club could expect from him as a sporting director.

The Newcastle United chief has emerged as a target for United after fresh investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe was approved by the Premier League. After confirmation of their 25 per cent stake in United, the Ineos group will oversee football oplong-termerations at Old Trafford. Ineos director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford has a close connection to Ashworth, having spent time with the Newcastle squad during pre-season, back in 2022.

MEN Sport has reported that Ashworth wants to become United’s sporting director. The Newcastle chief would be expected to face an extended period of gardening leave before starting work at Old Trafford. ChronicleLive has reported that Newcastle are yet to receive a formal approach from United.

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Ashworth officially began working for Newcastle in June 2022, having held similar positions at West Bromwich Albion, the FA and Brighton. The 52-year-old was previously credited with helping Brighton forge pathways for young players, who have helped Brighton profit in the transfer market, as well as pushing the club up the Premier League.

Speaking in 2020, Ashworth explained how he viewed his role within Brighton’s structure. He revealed his two aims of looking after the club's long-term future and making a connection between the board room and the pitch.

“The principle for a technical director, in my opinion, is to look after the medium to long-term interests of the football club,” he told