Newcastle United already have a replacement lined up if Manchester United manage to successfully convince the Magpies’ director of football Dan Ashworth to join them once Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually takes part ownership of the Red Devils.
That is according to the Sun, who claim Newcastle are bracing themselves for an approach for Ashworth, who joined the club from Brighton and Hove Albion last year.
The report claims that Bournemouth’s technical director Richard Hughes would be at the top of the list to replace Ashworth should he opt to leave St James’ Park. Ashworth is first choice to become sporting director at Old Trafford if and when Ratcliffe and sidekick Sir Dave Brailsford finally take 25 per cent of Old Trafford.
Hughes, who shone in the Premier League as a midfielder at Portsmouth during his playing career, worked closely with Eddie Howe during their time together at Bournemouth.
Man City ready Palhinha move opening door for Phillips exit
The Sun also report Man City are ready to do battle with Bayern Munich and Liverpool to sign Fulham midfield ace Joao Palhinha.
The Portugal international is rated at £60million and any move to the Etihad Stadium would open the door for Kalvin Phillips to leave the club next month.
Newcastle are known to be monitoring the England international’s situation but, according to the report, both Juventus and Fulham are keen to sign Phillips on a loan deal until the end of the season.
