Man United chief “has stepped into” Ashworth’s role ahead of January transfer window – report

Jason Wilcox has reportedly taken over the duties and responsibilities formerly handled by Dan Ashworth after the club decided to part ways with their sporting director.

Last weekend, a bombshell report by The Athletic disclosed that Ashworth departed from United after a meeting held in the aftermath of their 3-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

It’s understood that United initiated the separation, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe playing a crucial role.

A subsequent report detailed the reasons for Ashworth’s abrupt exit, including strained relations with other executives and his indecisiveness when it came to sacking Erik ten Hag.

It was also stated that Ashworth was in favour of appointing a manager with Premier League experience, making him reluctant to approve the hiring of Ruben Amorim.

The Sun noted that United will not seek a replacement for Ashworth, with the club electing to scrap the sporting director position.

Now,  The Daily Mail point out, “Jason Wilcox has stepped into Dan Ashworth’s role at Manchester United going into the January transfer window.”

“An email sent to staff on Wednesday made it clear that Wilcox, who has been United’s technical director since April, will fill Ashworth’s shoes for the time being and is the point of contact for the scouting department on any recruitment matters.”

“The club’s interim director of recruitment Christopher Vivell is also expected to take a more prominent role after Ashworth was axed by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe just five months into the job.”

It’s understood that Wilcox has wasted no time in stepping up.

The former Southampton chief has led transfer talks with Paraguayan outfit Cerro Porteno over the signing of highly-rated youngster Diego Leon.

It’s believed that United are very close to sealing a deal for the 17-year-old, who is also on the radar of Premier League clubs like Manchester City and Arsenal.

The Red Devils are back in action on Thursday when they face Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League.

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