According to journalist Keith Downie, Newcastle United will wait to bring in Dan Ashworth as their new director of football instead of paying £5m to sign him early.
The Saudi Arabian Private Investment Fund’s Toon revolution will gather speed as we approach the end of the season. Of course, improving the playing squad will be of utmost importance, but changes need to be made across the board if they want to move up the Premier League table.
Ashworth, who is currently on gardening leave from Brighton & Hove Albion, has been heavily linked with a move north. However, it has been reported that the Magpies will need to pay £5m to secure his signature before his leave period ends, and if they refuse to do so, he will not be able to start his new job until November.
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Downie shed some light on the situation. He said: “I think Newcastle are obviously keen to bring him in. The agreement is in place there.
“Whether they will pay the £5m to get him in early, I would think it’s unlikely after speaking to those at the club. I think they’re quite content to wait.”
TIF Thoughts on Ashworth…
Ashworth has played a significant role in Brighton’s transition into a solid Premier League outfit. The 51-year-old helped take Graham Potter to the Amex Stadium, and the former Swansea boss has since revolutionised the way the Seagulls play.
The technical director has also overseen a number of shrewd transfers. Tariq Lamptey, Joel Veltman, Adam Lallana and Leandro Trossard are just some of the names to have moved to the south coast under Ashworth’s watch.
While the extensive funds at the new owners’ disposal reduce transfer market risk, the St James’ Park outfit can achieve their ambitious goals a lot quicker if they have the right people in charge. In January, Newcastle signed proven Premier League players such as Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood and Dan Burn, and have lost just three of their 10 games in the league since Deadline Day to move well clear of relegation.
Should Newcastle wait for Ashworth?
Yes
No
The glamorous, big-name transfers may take a while to materialise, meaning clever decisions will contribute to Newcastle’s success. Ashworth could prove to be one of PIF’s best signings, no matter when he ends up starting. As the old saying goes, good things come to those who wait.