Manchester United Shows Interest in Newcastle’s Sporting Director, Dan Ashworth

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Ratcliffe’s acquisition of approximately 25% ownership in United is set to be finalized later this month, with an official announcement expected before Christmas.

Upon joining the board, Ratcliffe will oversee the ‘sporting’ aspect of Old Trafford operations, a stipulation in the purchase of the initial minority stake.

As reported by 90min last month, INEOS, Ratcliffe’s company, plans to establish a football operations department.

Sir Dave Brailsford, an integral figure at INEOS and trusted confidant of Ratcliffe, is leading an inquiry into the club’s operations, aiming to identify areas for enhancement.

Brailsford, the director of sport at INEOS, brings extensive experience from leading the Tour de France team, the Grenadiers, and collaborating with Ligue 1 outfit Nice.

Following Richard Arnold’s departure, the plan is to appoint a new CEO, with Jean-Claude Blanc, a current INEOS executive and former Paris Saint-Germain director, likely to assume the role.

Brailsford and Blanc have been actively involved at Old Trafford this week.The next steps include the selection of a sporting director to oversee the football department, with the potential appointment of Dan Ashworth if convinced by Brailsford.

Additionally, a new head of recruitment is sought, with former Monaco figure Paul Mitchell under consideration for the position.

Brailsford, following Ratcliffe’s directive, has conducted a comprehensive review of the current structure, pinpointing top-tier candidates for key positions.

While Michael Edwards was initially considered, 90min reveals that Ashworth, especially favored by Brailsford, is a preferred choice for United.

Earlier this year, Ashworth’s potential link to United was downplayed after Gary Neville’s endorsement, but sources indicate that United’s interest is authentic.

Brailsford and Ashworth share a longstanding relationship, with Ashworth inviting Brailsford to address the Newcastle squad last year, praising him as the best in creating a high-performance culture.

Discussions are ongoing about a potential role for Brailsford at United, possibly in collaboration with the new sporting director and CEO.

Ratcliffe’s limited presence in the UK, based in Monaco, makes a day-to-day head role crucial for effective club management.

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