The latest on Newcastle’s pursuit of Ashworth

Newcastle United wanted Dan Ashworth to be their Director of Football back in February, but the 51-year-old is still on gardening leave as a deal hasn’t been struck with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Ashworth wants out of the Seagulls and is keen to be a part of the project at Newcastle, so he resigned amid talks but will stay on leave until November unless his compensation is paid by the Magpies.

Newcastle have been told to pay £5m to sign Ashworth earlier than November but have so far refused. The two clubs can’t seem to meet in the middle either, so Eddie Howe has been forced to pick up the slack.

The Magpies boss wants to be involved in conversations surrounding transfer targets, but Chris Waugh of The Athletic said he’s also having to get involved with intricate negotiations. And being spread so thin means he doesn’t have as much time to focus on coaching, so Newcastle need Ashworth as soon as possible.

There’s a lot of work to do this summer with so much deadwood needing to be trimmed and players in desperate need of upgrading, so Howe can’t keep up this workload. Ashworth’s arrival should bring some stability to St James’ Park.

In other news, Newcastle should sell Miguel Almiron if Moussa Diaby is signed