Man Utd finally agree deal to sign transfer guru ahead of spending spree – report

Manchester United have finally secured the services of Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director after months of negotiation with Newcastle United, according to The Athletic.

Ashworth’s arrival at Old Trafford was held up by disagreements over compensation between the two clubs.

However, after over four months on gardening leave, a deal has been struck and the 53-year-old is set to begin his new role immediately.

Ashworth was willing to take Newcastle to arbitration to expedite the move with United reportedly prepared to cover any legal costs.

Ashworth will oversee football performance, recruitment and operations for the Red Devils. He will be in charge of technical director Jason Wilcox while reporting to Sir Dave Brailsford, who is leading a strategic review of United’s footballing structure under the ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Ashworth’s reputation for shrewd player recruitment and building strong footballing structures precedes him. United fans will hope he can be a key part of the club’s revival under its new ownership.

Man United have filled the crucial positions in the club’s hierarchy and are working on a new contract for manager Erik ten Hag. The club’s summer transfer plans are also beginning to take shape.

United have identified Joshua Zirkzee as the man to provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund up top.

The Dutch centre-forward spearheaded Bologna into the Champions League with 11 goals and four assists in 34 Serie A appearances. United are trying to secure his signature.

Another crucial squad gap United need to fill is in the defensive midfield area. Casemiro is leaving this summer and United want Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte to take his place.

The combative 23-year-old had a poor season in Ligue 1, but Man United are offering him an escape route from the French capital club.

In defence, United continue to push for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite but must increase their offer to the Toffees to get them to consider a deal.

United will hope they can partner Branthwaite and other defensive target Matthijs De Ligt in the centre of defence next season.