Manchester United are set to appoint Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director as they move closer to reaching an agreement with Newcastle United.
The 52-year-old has a proven track record, having done an impressive job at Brighton & Hove Albion and Newcastle.
Many people are hailing Ashworth’s appointment as a coup, but Roy Keane has reservations about his loyalty to a long-term project at United.
Keane is not certain the English football expert would remain committed to the Red Devils if a more appealing offer comes from Real Madrid or Barcelona.
He told the Stick to Football podcast: “You’re talking about Dan Ashworth coming into Manchester United and being the best for the job, but he doesn’t seem to hang around for long.
“He was at Brighton for a few years, and he’s only been at Newcastle for a couple of seasons, so you have to look at that too.
“There’s no doubt he’s brilliant at his job, but who is to say he won’t leave in 18 months for Real Madrid or Barcelona?”
Ashworth may be ready to settle at United
Ashworth remained involved with football after retiring as a player by joining Peterborough United as their academy director in 2000.
After a stint at Cambridge United, he moved to West Bromwich Albion in 2004.
The 52-year-old served in different roles at the Baggies before leaving to become the FA director of elite development in 2012.
Ashworth has most recently been involved with Brighton and Newcastle, clubs where his work has been widely praised.
He signed many top players for the two clubs who have been doing well in the Premier League.
United would be appointing one of the best in the business if they secure Ashworth’s services, and he may feel they are the right club to lay down some roots with.
