Newcastle United make Crystal Palace man 'a top target' after owner meeting & Man Utd offer
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Newcastle United are hoping to appoint a new sporting director in time for the summer.
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Hide AdInterviews have been taking place as the look looks to find a replacement for Dan Ashworth. Phil Giles, Tiago Pinto and Paul Mitchell had all been heavily linked with the role but now a new name has entered the frame.
Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman, initially reported by Mail Online, is understood to be a top target for the role. Last Wednesday, Freedman was in the directors' box at Selhurst Park with the likes of Newcastle’s Amanda Staveley and Darren Eales as Palace won 2-0.
Freedman has been Palace’s sporting director since 2017 having previously spent time at the club as a player and manager. He has overseen some impressive signings during his time at Selhurst Park including a loan deal for Conor Gallagher and the permanent transfers of Marc Guehi, Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Joachim Andersen - all of whom have been subsequently linked with moves to Newcastle.
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Hide AdAshworth is currently on gardening leave at Newcastle after an approach from Manchester United. Ashworth will remain on gardening leave until the end of 2025 unless Newcastle can agree a compensation package with Manchester United to release him from his contract.
Man United looking to agree a deal close to what Newcastle paid to release Ashworth from his contract at Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022. But The Magpies want to see a significant return on their investment should he join a rival club.
It has also been reported that Ashworth will take Newcastle to arbitration in an attempt to force through a move to Old Trafford.
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