Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says he has no information on whether sporting director Dan Ashworth is set to leave the club and join Manchester United.

Ashworth wanted at Man UtdRed Devils making changes after Ratcliffe arrivalHowe in the dark over possible moveWHAT HAPPENED?

Ashworth has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford after two years with Newcastle. The Red Devils have reportedly made an approach for the sporting director and are hopeful a deal can be reached imminently. Howe has been asked for an update on the situation and insisted he has little news to share.

Advertisement (C)Getty ImagesWHAT EDDIE HOWE SAID

He told reporters: "Nothing, as far as I’m aware. Obviously it’s been in the news a lot and usually with these things that means something is going to happen but, as we speak now, we’ve had no contact.”

Howe also sent out a warning that Ashworth will not come cheap if he is to leave as he remains under contract at St James' Park.

“We’re very protective of what’s ours,” he added. “Whether that’s players or staff. If people do eventually move on to other clubs, there’s a process to go through before that’s a reality.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Manchester United look set for plenty of change following Sir Jim Ratcliffe's partial takeover. The Red Devils have already moved to bring in Omar Berrada from Manchester City as CEO and will be hoping Ashworth can also join the club. United are also drawing up plans to redevelop Old Trafford and make the stadium the "Wembley of the North".

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR ASHWORTH?

Ashworth's departure may not go down well with Howe if he does move on. The Newcastle boss has already warned Ashworth could leak intelligence if he takes up the role of sporting director at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, United will be hoping Ashworth can help improve the playing squad at the club in a bid to build a team capable of challenging for titles once again.