Manchester United face transfer budget blow because of move Sir Jim Ratcliffe has to make

The speed at which Sir Jim Ratcliffe is trying to implement sweeping changes at Manchester United is as admirable as it is ambitious.

Just over eight weeks since United confirmed they had reached an agreement for the Ineos chief to secure a 25 per cent stake in the club, Ratcliffe has already taken Omar Berrada from Manchester City and put the wheels in motion to try and transform Old Trafford.

Berrada's appointment as chief executive on January 20 was a statement of intent from the Failsworth-born billionaire. Though he has only acquired a 25 per cent stake from the Glazers, he is in no mood to take a reserved approach. He wants to make game-changing alterations.

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Taking control of football operations at Old Trafford was a key agreement in Ineos' plans. Their experience in sport, both in football and elsewhere, has the potential to stand United in good stead moving forward.

Appointing Berrada sent out a statement. Ineos now want to send out an even bigger statement by appointing Dan Ashworth.

Yesterday, Newcastle United announced they had put Ashworth on gardening leave after he informed them of his desire to join United. The Manchester Evening News revealed last week that the 52-year-old was as keen on United as they are on him.

It has been reported elsewhere United must stump up £20million in compensation to appoint Ashworth now, or risk being made to wait until 2026 before being able to add him to the top table at Old Trafford. It is an eye-watering fee, but it is one United may have to cough up if Ratcliffe's grand plan is to take flight as soon as