'Told...' - Craig Hope now reveals big Newcastle update on PIF 'negotiations'; it's a 'blow'

Craig Hope has revealed that Dan Ashworth could now be made to wait until November before taking up the role of sporting director at Newcastle United.

Brighton and Hove Albion confirmed in February that Ashworth would be leaving the Seagulls, and it is thought by reliable sources that he is jumping ship to St. James’ Park.

However, he has not officially taken on the new role in the North East yet, suggesting that some talks over the deal have reached a stumbling block – Lee Ryder revealed earlier this year that the compensation talks with Brighton were proving difficult.

Taking to Twitter, The Daily Mail journalist Hope has revealed that Ashworth could now be made to wait until November before he can take up the sporting director position on Tyneside, adding that ‘no progress’ has been made in PIF’s ‘negotiations’ with the Seagulls:

“Dan Ashworth could be made to wait until November before taking up NUFC sporting director role.

“Negotiations with Brighton continue but no progress yet.

“Club relaxed if Howe/Nickson/Staveley oversee summer transfers, as was case in Jan.

“Scouting meetings this wk.”

He continued:

“Told that Ashworth has a nine-month notice period and, as it stands, will be made to see it out.

“Brighton not making it easy for him to join Newcastle, as is their right.”

As The Times journalist Martin Hardy puts it, this is a ‘blow‘ for the Magpies’ transfer plans if they cannot get Ashworth in before the summer window opens.

The 51-year-old has received glowing reviews, as The Times’ Henry Winter has said that he will bring ‘relentless enthusiasm’, a ‘great work ethic’ and a lot of contacts to the Toon, once he takes up the role.

Newcastle World journalist Liam Kennedy has previously hailed the pending