Eddie Howe reveals latest on Man Utd interest in Dan Ashworth as he expresses Newcastle 'concerns'

Eddie Howe has said he wants a quick resolution to the Dan Ashworth saga at Newcastle United, with Manchester United keen to hire the 52-year-old as their new director of sport.

While no official offer has been forthcoming from Old Trafford, United are keen on bringing in Ashworth, who is believed to be keen on taking up a new role. ManchesterWorld understands the Red Devils are willing to wait for as long as it takes to hire their primary target, and will not pay a fee close to the £10m that has been reported.

For now, it leaves Newcastle in a difficult position, especially with Ashworth aware of the club’s plans for the summer transfer window. Speaking on Friday, Howe admitted that it is a concern and said ‘it’s a slightly unusual situation’.

“At some stage there has to be a line drawn and things have to move forward. It’s not my decision. I’m not in control of it.”

Asked if he wants the situation resolved as quickly as possible, the former Bournemouth boss replied:  "Yes, but it’s not about what I want, is it? I don’t know, it’s not my decision. I’m not in control of it.”

Howe also said Ashworth has not indicated that he wants to remain in the north-east and was also asked if there has been an approach from United.

“Nothing, as far as I’m aware," he responded. "Obviously it’s been in the news a lot and usually with these things, that means something’s going to happen. But as we speak now, we’ve had no contact from anyone.”

United's move to appointment Ashworth comes as Sir Jim Ratcliffe's bid to buy a partial stake in United nears completion. The Ineos lead shareholder has already helped engineer Omar Berrada's arrival from Manchester City, while Southampton Jason Wilcox is another name under consideration.