This could be a major setback for the Magpies.
Newcastle United has had a frustrating season despite making tremendous progress in the previous campaign by qualifying for the Champions League. After a forgettable summer of transfers, followed by a short winter window, they may now see their misery compounded by the potential departure of a key cog in the St James’ Park machine.
Newcastle exit news
During the January transfer period, players such as Callum Wilson, Miguel Almiron, and Kieran Trippier were rumored to leave Newcastle due to the club’s financial challenges, with reported losses of £155 million over the past three seasons. Despite this financial strain, manager Eddie Howe managed to retain his key players.
It remains to be seen whether this will be the case throughout the summer, with Joelinton being one to keep an eye on. The Brazilian’s deal expires in the summer of 2025, and Howe acknowledged that he may still depart, telling BBC Sport: “He has 18 months left on his contract, so it’s possible he’ll be sold in the summer.”
To compound their troubles, Newcastle not only have concerns on the field but also off it. According to Wayne Veysey of Football Insider, Dan Ashworth, currently Newcastle’s sporting director, has reportedly agreed to terms with Manchester United to become their inaugural sporting director. Ashworth would need to observe a significant period of gardening leave before finalizing his move to Old Trafford to work alongside Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
This potential departure would represent a significant setback for Newcastle, as Ashworth has played a crucial role in their project since 2022, overseeing the construction of a squad capable of competing for a top-four position in the Premier League. While the identity of Ashworth’s replacement remains uncertain, there’s speculation, according to Luke Edwards, that former Liverpool executive Michael Edwards is being considered for the role.
Major blow for Newcastle
One of the most impressive players in his capacity, Ashworth’s departure, if it occurs, may devastate Newcastle’s PIF operation. Meanwhile, Manchester United would be getting the ideal sporting director to finally start organising the pandemonium at Old Trafford.
Gary Neville has previously offered his seal of approval on Ashworth, posting on X in November of last year:
On my way up to the gantry last night I bumped into Dan Ashworth. He transformed the FA’s structure, set Brighton up for this incredible period of success and has now built a strong foundation for the new owners at Newcastle. He’s competent, highly qualified and knows what he’s…
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) November 2, 2023
At a time when Newcastle has been more disgruntled than ever off the pitch under PIF, Ashworth’s departure would come at the worst possible time, ahead of a crucial summer transfer window. Not only will the Magpies have to consider incomings to enhance Howe’s side, but they will also have to consider moving away from St James’ Park, which might require them to change their sports director.
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