'My guess is' - Alan Shearer shares Dan Ashworth theory amid Manchester United interest

Alan Shearer has told his former club Newcastle United to start preparing for life after Dan Ashworth, anticipating the sporting director will soon make a move to Manchester United.

Newcastle recently placed their transfer chief on gardening leave after his request to leave the club, with multiple reports suggesting the Magpies have been left frustrated at how this saga has played out.

Unless the two clubs are able to reach a compromise as regards financial compensation, Ashworth will remain on gardening leave until his contract and will be unable to start a new role elsewhere until early 2026.

Not convinced this scenario is likely to play out, Shearer is of the view United will soon strike a deal for the 52-year-old that will enable both parties to move on.

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"He’s had a really good career when you look at what he did at Brighton, what he did with England. Newcastle did that to Brighton in terms of they wanted him badly at the football club. He had to go on gardening leave at Brighton before he could take over at Newcastle," he said on The Rest Is Football Podcast.

"We’re not naive enough to think that once someone goes on gardening leave then they’re not working for that other football club. My guess is that a compromise will be had, they’ll [Manchester United] pay a fee. He’s done a really good job at Newcastle, but when you think about what he knows in terms of players’ contracts, clauses in their contracts, who Newcastle might have to sell, who they want to buy - he’ll take all that info with