Dan Ashworth 'claims he was sacked by Newcastle' as Man Utd set for arbitration hearing

Dan Ashworth is reportedly in a battle with Newcastle United to try and force an early move to Manchester United, after the former Magpies sporting director was placed on a lengthy period of gardening leave.

Ashworth will reportedly put forward a case that he was sacked by Newcastle, instead of resigning, which could allow him to join United early.

It comes after a drawn-out saga involving Ashworth and the two Premier League clubs, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe targeting the ex-Newcastle man for his new-look hierarchy at Old Trafford.

As per The Telegraph, United and Ashworth have requested an arbitration hearing – which is expected to start later this month – after the 20-time English champions were unable to agree a compensation fee with Newcastle.

It’s claimed in the report that the transfer guru believes his departure from St. James’ Park wasn’t handled correctly and therefore – according to Ashworth’s camp – renders his gardening leave null and void.

Newcastle are said to have demanded around £20million in order for Ashworth to link up with Ratcliffe and Co. before the start of next season – a figure United weren’t willing to match.

Instead, the Red Devils reportedly countered with an offer of less than £3million, leading to an impasse between both parties which still hasn’t been resolved.

Ashworth will reportedly argue that he was removed from his position as sporting director, because he wasn’t asked to formally write down his resignation by chief executive Darren Eales.

However, Newcastle aren’t reportedly expected to back down from their position and will contest the arbitration hearing, with the North East-based outfit still holding out for compensation.

And if their request isn’t matched, it’s suggested Newcastle will hold firm on their gardening leave stance, which could mean Ashworth is forced to wait until late 2025 before he can join United.

Ashworth had joined Newcastle from Brighton in 2022, having previously worked for West Brom and the Football Association beforehand, and his scalp would be a very important piece of business for United.

United, under INEOS and Ratcliffe specifically, are looking to usher in a new era following years in mediocrity – and view Ashworth as a key start to this new period.