Chelsea and Manchester United are competing for a new director of football.

The Telegraph says it's United's interest in FA blazer Dan Ashworth and Italian transfer guru Monchi that could lead to a battle with Chelsea.

The Stamford Bridge side also have former West Brom man Ashworth and the Roma mastermind on their agenda.

The United recruitment team includes chief scout Jim Lawlor and head of global recruitment Marcel Bout, while Matt Judge negotiates the deals.

Ashworth's stock is high after turning England's youth teams into Euro and world champions, then providing Gareth Southgate with players to reach the World Cup semi-final.

Monchi has impressed at Sevilla and Roma.