With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s partial acquisition of Manchester United occurring at an opportune time in the season, the January transfer window might be profitable for the team.
Though it will be some weeks before the deal is finalized, and the summer window is more probable for the Red Devils to spend big money in the transfer market, Erik ten Hag will arguably have alternatives before the winter window shuts at the end of the month.
However, United must do more than just improve on the field. Having the appropriate people in place behind the scenes is critical for the club’s continued success.
To that end, i sport (subscription required) reports that United are interested in not only Paul Mitchell, but also Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth.
Mitchell was considered an early front-runner for the role of sporting director, but it is believed that Sir Dave Brailsford, who has been tasked by Sir Jim with managing such appointments, would like to have him as head of recruitment and bring Ashworth in as sporting director.
Given how well he’s done at St. James’ Park, luring him away would be a difficult ask, but sources speaking to i sport feel it’s doable.
“Sir Dave will go all out for Dan Ashworth,” stated the insider.
“This is what he excels at: placing the right people in the right roles.” He will not meddle with coaching or tell a manager who to sign.
“He’ll get the right person in there to do that.” And he never fails to get his man.”
