Man United eye Newcastle’s Ashworth as sporting director – sources

Manchester United are set to appoint Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director, sources have told ESPN.

Ashworth is contracted to Newcastle United, but he is United's main target for the position and there is growing confidence in his appointment.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (US)

Newcastle are keen to keep the 52-year-old but fear he has already decided on a move to Old Trafford.

Ashworth would be the second major appointment since Sir Jim Ratcliffe struck a deal to buy a 25% stake in the club, following the appointment of Omar Berrada as chief executive.

Berrada, who has been at Manchester City, is on gardening leave and is expected to take up the role in the summer.

Ratcliffe's minority investment is nearing completion after the deal was approved by the Premier League and the English Football Association.

Sources told ESPN that the deal was considered a formality and could be officially ratified as early as next week.

Ratcliffe and his team, led by INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, are expected to lead overall football operations, starting with Ashworth's appointment.

Ashworth, who has also worked at Brighton, West Brom and the FA, is also expected to have influence over other appointments within the recruitment department.

He is a big admirer of Sam Jewell, Brighton's head of recruitment.

United are yet to make a formal approach to Newcastle for Ashworth, but they are hopeful a deal can be agreed.