Newcastle
Exclusive: Newcastle to pay Ashworth millions
Newcastle United will pay over £2million in wages to Dan Ashworth over the length of his 20-month gardening leave period, sources have told Football Insider.
The Tyneside club announced on Monday (19 February) that Ashworth has left the club and commenced a period of gardening leave.
The 52-year-old has been made a top target at Man United for a sporting director role since their minority takeover deal in December.
However, Newcastle are demanding a compensation fee of up to £20million to release Ashworth early.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe told media this week that it is “silly” that Ashworth could spend over a year and a half out of action if United refuse to pay compensation.
Newcastle United set to pay £2m+ in Ashworth wages if Man United refuse demands
Football Insider revealed on Monday that Man United ‘will not pay’ £20million to hire Ashworth immediately.
Sources say that Ashworth earns a weekly wage of £28,000 at St James’ Park – meaning he is set to earn £2.2million over 20 months if United refuse to pay compensation.
United will continue talks to reach a financial settlement to cut Ashworth’s gardening leave short, but Newcastle are wary of strengthening a direct Premier League rival.
Ashworth’s salary only makes up a small portion of the club-record £187million wage bill recorded at Newcastle in the 2022-23 season.
The Magpies remain keen to pocket financial compensation from Manchester United to help their Financial Fair Play position.
