Manchester United make official approach for Newcastle's Dan Ashworth

Manchester United have made an official approach to Newcastle for their sporting director Dan Ashworth.

Earlier on Monday, Newcastle confirmed Ashworth had been placed on gardening leave after requesting his release.

Manchester United believe they are in a strong negotiating position as Newcastle will have to pay the 52-year-old during his leave.

However, Newcastle feel they are also in a strong position, given how keen Manchester United are to bring in the man widely acknowledged as one of football's most effective sporting directors.

The Magpies have Ashworth under a contract that prevents him from working for anyone else into 2025 unless compensation is agreed.

They believe they will be within their rights to ask Manchester United for a fee well in excess of £10m.

The Old Trafford outfit, on the other hand, are determined they will not be forced to overpay.

Darren Eales, Newcastle United's chief executive, said: "We are naturally disappointed that Dan has chosen to leave. However, our exciting journey doesn't stop and the process to recruit a new sporting director will begin immediately.

"We thank Dan for his efforts at Newcastle United and we wish him and his family well for the future."

Although Ashworth is highly regarded, there have been some suggestions from St James' Park he is at least partly responsible for the £55m signing of Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali from AC Milan in July.

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