Soccer is not just about the best players or coaches anymore; sporting directors like Dan Ashworth are equally crucial for a successful club. They handle transfers and contracts, often bringing in talented players for both the present and the future.
Ashworth, one of the most experienced Premier League soccer directors, is currently at Newcastle United. However, he is on gardening leave now, and is being tipped to join Manchester United.
Brighton’s jaw-dropping profit from sales proves Dan Ashworth’s transfer prowess
Dan Ashworth’s career started long ago, but it was his brilliant work at Brighton and Hove Albion that put him on the map. The club is known for its outstanding scouting department, bringing out many top-talented players in recent years. They have also made significant sales, thanks to Dan.
Joining in 2019 as a technical director at Brighton, Dan has orchestrated smart transfers, bringing in talented players like Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Trossard, and Marc Cucurella. All of these players have been sold for substantial amounts, generating revenue for the club.
For example, Moises Caicedo was acquired for only £4 million but was later sold to Chelsea for £115 million. Mac Allister, purchased for just £6.9 million, was subsequently sold to Liverpool for £35 million, and Cucurella’s value increased from £15.4 million to £55.8 million.
These transfers have significantly contributed to the club’s financial success, showcasing Dan’s ability to generate profits through player transfers. Additionally, he has a talent for identifying promising youngsters like Kaoru Mitoma and Evan Ferguson, both of whom are excelling in England and could potentially fetch substantial fees in the future.
Dan Ashworth inching towards Manchester United switch
Dan Ashworth left the Brighton job in 2022 to join Newcastle United, where he also signed a lot of stars like Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon among others. However, he is on gardening leave right now, similar to Todd Kline at Tottenham.
This is because Ineos, who now own a minority stake in Manchester United and control all sporting operations, want him to be their new sporting director. It is part of their new system and a total overhaul of the club’s hierarchy. United is in talks with Newcastle as they are prepared to provide financial compensation for Ashworth to join them.
🚨🔴 Manchester United will make formal proposal to Newcastle soon as they will try to negotiate compensation to have Dan Ashworth right now.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 19, 2024
Not easy but talks will take place.
It's over between Ashworth and Newcastle after he said yes to #MUFC project last week, as reported. pic.twitter.com/dqibZnzkFZ
Dan is himself excited to take on the role, as he was linked to the club many times in previous years as well. With an excellent track record so far, United fans will love Dan Ashworth to join them very soon.
