Newcastle 'furious' with Manchester United as £20m Dan Ashworth warning emerges

Manchester United are hoping to bring in Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth.

The Manchester Evening News revealed back in December that Sir Dave Brailsford had identified Ashworth as his preferred choice to become sporting director. Brailsford and Ashworth have an existing working relationship from previous ventures and Ashworth is understood to want to take up that role at Old Trafford.

The MEN also understands that the Ineos Group are so confident of landing a deal to recruit Ashworth, they have not drawn up a list of alternative options for this post. And below is a round-up of the latest news regarding Newcastle's transfer chief and his potential move to United.

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Ashworth on 'gardening leave'

Ashworth is believed to have been placed on gardening leave after requesting to leave the Magpies.

This will ensure he remains on the payroll of Newcastle but will have no influence over their activity during this period. The same process has been applied to the incoming United CEO, Omar Berrada, at Manchester City.

The Athletic have claimed "formal contact" is soon expected to take place between the two clubs as they seek an amicable resolution to this issue. It is added that United are "willing to be patient," as they do not wish to be pressured into committing to an unrealistic sum to remove Ashworth from his contract.

Ashworth to cost '£15m'

Newcastle have reportedly informed the Reds they will have to stump up £15million to release Ashworth from his 20-month period of gardening leave.

The Times have