Manchester United set for huge transfer window boost after key deal finally 'agreed'

Manchester United look set to receive a significant boost for the summer transfer window after reportedly reaching a breakthrough in their pursuit of Dan Ashworth.

For the last four months, United have been locked in talks with Newcastle over a suitable compensation package for their sporting director and it is understood they have finally come to an agreement over the financing of a deal.

While there is no mention of the precise fee at this moment in time, ESPN report a settlement is close, while The Athletic say an agreement has already been reached. United declined to comment when asked about the reports on Monday morning.

It means there will be no arbitration hearing required to settle the dispute and Ashworth could now begin work at Old Trafford immediately, after the threat he would remain on gardening leave until the end of 2025.

Ashworth had been placed on gardening leave after United made an official approach back in February, and Newcastle demanded a £20 million compensation fee. United believed a deal close to what Newcastle paid to release Ashworth from his previous contract at Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022 would be fair, but The Magpies wanted to see a significant return on their investment should he join a rival club.

United's breakthrough for Ashworth means the 53-year-old will be allowed to immediately start work at Old Trafford once his Newcastle deal is terminated, where he will be in charge of recruitment for the summer transfer window.

Ashworth will be a key figure in United's new football structure under Ineos and will report directly to chief executive Omar Berrada when he starts work on July 13. United's technical director Jason Wilcox will report to Ashworth.