Manchester United’s pursuit of sporting director Dan Ashworth remains unresolved much to the delight of the Newcastle faithful. When Manchester United first made their approach it felt a little underhanded so anything The Toon can do to stick one to the Red Devils I’m personally all for it.
Despite Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent comments on Newcastle United’s “awkward” stance, the Magpies have reinforced their position, insisting they are willing to make United wait up to 18 months. Ashworth is currently on gardening leave, and the two clubs have yet to agree on a compensation figure after he resigned in February.
The Magpies are reportedly demanding as much as £20 million, having quite rightly rejected a £3 million offer from United. If you want our pay pay up the money asked I say. It’s nice to see the board go for the jugular here and outplay Sir Jim Ratcliffe and give Manchester United a good squeeze in an attempt to get as much cash as possible out of the deal like a clever player taking advantage of an online slots game.
The Magpies are unphased by Ratcliffe’s remarks and seem determined to hold out for their desired financial package. Manchester United, on the other hand, is not inclined to meet the £20 million price tag for Ashworth and is cautious about enhancing Newcastle’s Profit and Sustainability position in the Premier League. Despite the delay, United remains committed to appointing Ashworth as part of their behind-the-scenes Ineos revolution at Old Trafford which is fair enough, but as we said before if they want the deal to get over the line then they need to fall in line and pay our club what it’s asking for.
Mikel Merino Off To Arsenal?
This next bit of news may come as a surprise as I’m sure, but Mikel Merino may well be making a move back to England in a shock transfer I’m sure none of us expected. The sad news though is it looks like he won’t be coming back to St James’ Park.
Mikel Merino joined Newcastle United on a season-long loan in 2017 and became a bit of a cult hero for the Magpies. During his time with the club, Merino made 25 competitive appearances, scoring one goal—a late header that secured a 1-0 victory against Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on October 21, 2017. He also provided one assist during his stint at the club.
Now it seems that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly persuaded Newcastle cult hero to join the Gunners. As Arsenal prepares for another season, they are seeking new signings across various positions. Arteta, known for his persuasive charm, has been working on convincing Merino of the project’s potential at the Emirates Stadium.
Sporting director Edu Gaspar now just needs to finalise terms with Merino, as Arteta has laid the groundwork for the move. Spanish outlets Mundo Deportivo and Sport, via Sport Witness, claim that Arteta has assured the Real Sociedad star of “big plans” for him at Arsenal. I can’t say I expected this one, but it does look like it’s gaining some traction and may well get done.
