Newcastle make sporting director breakthrough as they speak to ‘prominent’ target
Newcastle have taken a step forward in their hunt for a new director of football after Brighton allowed them to speak to Dan Ashworth.
Former director of elite development at the FA, Ashworth has been given permission to speak to the Magpies as they look to fill their vacant role at St James’ Park. Ashworth was linked with the role in the last few weeks, along with Leeds chief Victor Orta. But, The Telegraph now reports that Newcastle have made an official approach to Brighton.
“Brighton do not want to lose Ashworth, who has been instrumental in their rise and works closely with manager Graham Potter,” report the paper, but Newcastle’s offer may well be too good to refuse.
Ashworth “features prominently” on Newcastle’s shortlist as they look to restructure the club.
Former Reading technical director Nicky Hammond has been appointed to oversee the January transfer window.
But Ashworth is seen as the long-term solution for Newcastle, who were recently taken over by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) for £305m.
Ashworth was well regarded at the FA and was involved in appointing Gareth Southgate as manager. The former West Brom sporting director has a track record of youth development and Newcastle have identified him as a target.
However, per the source, Ashworth “is not the only candidate Newcastle want to speak to”.
The Sun have claimed Frank McParland, who is an advisor to Newcastle director Amanda Staveley, is also a contender.
Leeds’ director of football Victor Orta is believed to be on the Toon’s radar.
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Orta on Newcastle radar
Orta, who was recently seen reacting angrily to supporters at Elland Road, is well respected in West Yorkshire.
He has also worked in the North-East previously, having joined Leeds from Middlesbrough in 2017 after an 18-month spell on Teesside as head of recruitment.
Former Leeds keeper Paul Robinson has said that he believes Orta could be tempted by a move.
He told Football Insider: “Orta is proven.
“He is proven in his recruitment at both Championship and Premier League level.
“Victor is very highly regarded. He has done a good job at Leeds.
“It would be a good challenge for him, going to Newcastle. The job at Newcastle has many stages. Right now, it’s about trying to keep them in the Premier League.”
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