Dan Ashworth would be prevented from starting his role at Manchester United until 2025 even if he agrees to make the switch from Newcastle United, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Newcastle are wary that they are likely to lose their sporting director to Manchester United as part of a major overhaul behind the scenes at Old Trafford.
Manchester United have identified Ashworth as their top target and an official approach is expected in the coming days.
Newcastle have not received any assurances from Ashworth and the club will seek clarification from the 52-year-old in the coming days.
However, lengthy gardening leave would mean Ashworth would not be able to start his new role at Old Trafford until 2025.
Manchester United would also have to agree to pay a massive compensation fee to extract him from his Newcastle contract.
With Premier League ratification granted to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25 per cent takeover of Manchester United, his INEOS team want to move quickly on appointing a sporting director.
They have already poached Omar Berrada from Manchester City to become their new CEO in the summer.
Their eyes are now on Ashworth who is open to working in the new revamped structure at Manchester United.
