Newcastle and Manchester United Possibly to Settle Ashworth Conflict with Player Swap Deal

Newcastle United may explore the option of a player swap deal with Manchester United as a resolution to the potential recruitment of Dan Ashworth.

In February, the Red Devils expressed their interest in acquiring the of Dan Ashworth, Newcastle’s sporting director, for a similar role at their club.

Ashworth, an Englishman, indicated his desire to join the’s hierarchy and was subsequently put on leave as discussions between the two clubs commenced.

Later in the month, Newcastle officially announced Ashworth’s departure and placed him on gardening leave.

Reports suggest that the Magpies are seeking around £20 million in compensation for allowing their executive to leave, a figure that Manchester United is hesitant to meet.

Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness criticized the negotiation approach of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the new owner of Manchester United, in managing the ongoing situation.

Speaking on Football Insider’s Insider Track podcast, Wyness emphasized the necessity of a negotiated settlement, implying that an agreement would eventually be reached between the parties.

The 66-year-old pointed out the customary practice in football, where disputes are often settled through concessions, indicating that both sides would need to compromise.

He stated (via Football Insider):

“Manchester United will have to agree to a negotiated settlement.

“At some point, one party will give in and they will sit down together – and hash it out.

“It’s a common occurrence in football. I fail to see why this is such a sticking point.

“There has to be a resolution, with one side making concessions. That’s how both clubs will come to an agreement.

“It might involve a larger arrangement, like a player swap deal between the two clubs.

“Finding a solution to this problem is not unusual, but Jim Ratcliffe is new to the scene.

“He needs to finalize this, and I am surprised it has not been resolved faster.”