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Manchester United irritated many figures at Newcastle United after convincing Dan Ashworth to leave their project for a move to Old Trafford.
INEOS waited almost five months to land Ashworth after Newcastle demanded £20 million in compensation for his services. Ultimately, the two clubs reached a compromise in July 2024. However, Ashworth was abruptly sent to the exit a few months later.
United, who are preparing to face the Magpies on Boxing Day, have now set their sights on another influential man at St James’ Park.
Manchester United are trying to poach Newcastle’s academy guru
According to the Daily mailUnited are set to appoint Newcastle’s head of youth recruitment, Paul Midgley, to fill the same role at their academy.
Midgley will replace Luke Fedorenko, who has decided to leave Carrington to take a new agency job.
As has been the trend under chief executive Omar Berrada, Midgley brings experience in a role at Manchester City.
The report states: “Midgley was chosen from more than ten applicants following an extensive selection process.”
He joined Newcastle from Leeds United three years ago. Previously he was British scouting manager at City, where he worked with Jason Wilcox and Stephen Torpey.
Wilcox is now director of football at Theater of Dreams, and Torpey recently succeeded Nick Cox as head of the club’s academy.
It is claimed that the Red Devils may face “resistance” from Newcastle to Midgley’s services.
Man United interested in Newcastle youngster
Last summer the two clubs were also evenly matched in the transfer market.
Eddie Howe wanted to acquire Benjamin Sesko from RB Leizpig. However, the Slovenian turned down Newcastle in favor of a move to United, forcing Howe to recruit German striker Nick Woltemade instead.
Heading into the winter transfer window, United are said to be keeping an eye on their full-back Tino Livramento amid doubts over Patrick Dorgu, who has failed to secure a starting spot at full-back under Ruben Amorim.
Wilcox reportedly knows Livramento “incredibly well”. The 23-year-old’s contract with Newcastle runs until 2028.
Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images
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