Yahoo Sport 
Newcastle United confirm another departure as busy period of activity continues
NEWCASTLE UNITED have confirmed the departure of their former sporting director Dan Ashworth.
The Magpies have agreed a compensation package with Manchester United that will see Ashworth take up a new position as sporting director at Old Trafford.
The money received for Ashworth, along with the fees banked for the sale of Yankuba Minteh to Brighton and Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest, ensure that Newcastle have remained compliant with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations and will not face a points penalty next season.
A Newcastle statement said: "Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United.
"The terms of this agreement will remain confidential between the clubs.
"Newcastle United thanks Dan for his service and wishes him well for the future."
Ashworth was placed on gardening leave more than four months ago after expressing an interest in leaving Newcastle in order to move to Manchester United.
READ MORE:
'PSR rules are not fit for purpose - but that does not excuse Newcastle's ineptitude'
Newcastle United announce shock signing of Premier League veteran
'No feeling like it' - Lewis Hall reacts after transfer to Newcastle from Chelsea is confirmed
A series of discussions over compensation failed to reach a resolution, with Newcastle initially insisting that they would force Ashworth to see out the whole of his gardening leave period, which was due to extend well into 2025.
Their stance infuriated new Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who criticised it publicly, and it had looked like an independent hearing would be needed to break the impasse. Ashworth was ready to take Newcastle to arbitration in an attempt to force through the move, with Manchester United having agreed to pay his legal fees, while the Magpies felt they were in a strong position because of Ashworth’s actions as he tried to set up his switch.
However, the situation has been resolved by further talks, with Newcastle having reached an agreement with Manchester United that should see Ashworth begin his new job at Old Trafford immediately.
