Express Sport – Dan The Man 

The back page of the Daily Express reports Manchester United’s pursuit of Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth is rapidly progressing ahead of official confirmation of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25 per cent stake in the club, according to reports. Ashworth has been selected as the best fit to enter INEOS’ new-look hierarchy at Old Trafford.

The 52-year-old, who only joined Newcastle from Brighton and Hove Albion in 2022, would represent the second major coup of Ratcliffe’s sporting shake-up.

Last month, United confirmed that Omar Berrada was leaving Manchester City to become the club’s new chief executive, replacing Richard Arnold.

Now, Ratcliffe and co.’s search for a new sporting director to helm the recruitment team has planted them on the road to St. James’ Park.