Newcastle United's sporting director Dan Ashworth is reportedly set to take his employer to arbitration to push through a move to Manchester United.
The decision to go to an arbitrator could work either for or against Ashworth. The process of arbitration sees both sides put their case forward to an independent adjudicator who will decide who is in the right and who is in the wrong. Crucially, this avoids both parties being drawn into an expensive court battle.READ MORE: Ten Hag sends message to Ashworth and Wilcox
When asked about Ashworth in February, Ratcliffe was complimentary of the former Brighton and Hove Albion director. "I think Dan Ashworth is clearly one of the top sporting directors in the world, I’ve no doubt. Once Ashworth does join United, he will take up a role similar to that which he held at St James' Park. He shall be aided by Sir Dave Brailsford, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox.