Newcastle's Eddie Howe provides update on Manchester United-linked Dan Ashworth

The 52-year-old has built a reputation as one of the best football directors in the game and was a key figure behind England's success at youth level in 2017 when the Young Lions triumphed at both the Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups.

After seven years working for the Football Association, Ashworth spent almost two years as a technical director at Brighton & Hove Albion, before moving to St James' Park in February 2022 to become the Magpies' sporting director.

Ashworth arrived at Newcastle shortly after the club's Saudi-backed takeover was completed, and he has played a key role in the club's recruitment decisions in recent transfer windows.

However, speculation over Ashworth's future has surfaced this week amid reports that Man United have identified the highly-rated chief as a leading candidate to become the club's new sporting director.

Significant off-field changes are taking place at Old Trafford following the arrival of minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who recently has his 25% stake in the Red Devils approved by the Premier League.

Ashworth is said to have a long-standing relationship with INEOS head of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, who is working closely with CEO Ratcliffe behind the scenes at Man United in recruiting the desired personnel at boardroom level.

Recent reports have suggested that Man United are planning to make a formal approach for Ashworth, although they will be required to pay a £10m compensation fee to lure him away from Newcastle.

Discussing the future of Ashworth at a press conference on Friday, Magpies boss Howe said: «It's