Dan Ashworth 'blunder' strengthens Newcastle United hopes of gaining £20m Man United package

Newcastle United have maintained a dignified silence on the Dan Ashworth situation after it emerged the sporting director made an "email blunder" during his messy Toon exit.

The Magpies will not comment on the matter, but Chronicle Live understands that reports Ashworth inadvertently revealing he'd been approached by Manchester United are believed to be accurate according to those close to the situation.

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The Daily Mail first reported that Ashworth sent an email to Man United CEO Omar Berrada. The email was also sent by Ashworth to himself as a blind copy, breaching Newcastle's in-house HR rules on communication.

It is understood that a full investigation is under way at Newcastle and their position on Ashworth's future is stronger than it was before. Newcastle want £20million compensation for his services with Ashworth trying to put up a legal fight to be released early.

Berrada is yet to start at Man United ahead of his July move from rivals Man City. It is expected that Ashworth's gardening leave does not expire until the end of 2025, leaving Sir Jim Ratcliffe in a tricky spot if he wants Ashworth in work this summer.

Ratcliffe had previously said: "One of the biggest problems we have in football is we get these new guys to come into the team, they’re really capable people, but they’re all on gardening leave. So it takes six months, a year or even 18 months (for them to start) It’s a real issue in football at the moment.

"I think it’s a bit silly, personally. What I do think is completely absurd is suggesting a man who is really good at his job sits in his garden for one and a half years."

Newcastle did not comment when approached by Chronicle Live. Both Man City and Man United have also declined to comment.