Newcastle United are said to be bracing themselves for the departure of Dan Ashworth.

The club are prepared to lose their sporting director to Premier League rivals Manchester United.

Per The Telegraph, Newcastle's hierarchy believes that Ashworth is not committed to the club.

The 52-year-old may have been convinced by Sir Jim Ratcliffe to join his Red Devils revolution.

Ashworth's departure could even be confirmed in the coming days, given Man United's serious interest in him.

However, he would likely be subject to a gardening leave, which means he could not take over at Old Trafford until close to 2025.