Newcastle Targets Bournemouth’s Richard Hughes as Potential Sporting Director
Newcastle United is eyeing Bournemouth’s transfer chief, Richard Hughes, as their top choice for the role of sporting director. This move comes as the club prepares for the potential departure of their current sporting director, Dan Ashworth, who is rumored to be joining Manchester United once Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s takeover is finalized.
Credit: Getty
Ashworth, aged 52, is the preferred candidate for the football supremo position at Manchester United if Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford acquire a 25% stake in the club. In response, Newcastle is considering placing Ashworth on gardening leave, similar to what Brighton did when they lost him. However, they would need a suitable replacement, and Richard Hughes, Bournemouth’s technical director, is a name that has gained traction among Newcastle officials.
Strong Connection with Eddie Howe
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe would be thrilled to have Hughes on board as they share a close relationship from their time together at Bournemouth. At 44 years old, Hughes has played a crucial role in Bournemouth’s recent development and may see this as the right opportunity to join one of the Premier League giants.
If Ashworth were to join Manchester United, he would be accompanied by another scouting expert. This opens up possibilities for other candidates such as former Tottenham recruiter Paul Mitchell or Crystal Palace’s Dougie Freedman to fill the role at Old Trafford.
Currently, Manchester United is struggling in the Premier League, sitting in seventh place with 27 points from 16 games. The club has faced criticism for their recruitment decisions in recent years, and it is expected that incoming co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will implement significant internal changes.
Despite their challenges, Manchester United remains a highly attractive destination for top football professionals, and the potential addition of Dan Ashworth could be a step towards revitalizing the club’s fortunes.
Read More on Man Utd
For more news and updates on Manchester United, click here.
Conclusion
Newcastle United has identified Richard Hughes as their top choice to replace Dan Ashworth if he joins Manchester United. Hughes, currently serving as Bournemouth’s transfer chief, has a strong connection with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and could be enticed by the opportunity to join a Premier League giant. Manchester United’s struggles and the potential for internal changes make it an attractive destination for top football professionals like Ashworth. The recruitment of Ashworth could be a significant step towards revitalizing the club’s fortunes.
Disclaimer: This article is a rewrite of the original content found on The Sun website.