Newcastle placed Ashworth on gardening leave after United approached him to replace John Murtough as sporting director under the INEOS banner.
Ratcliffe baulked at the Tyneside giants’ demand of a £15million compensation package to part ways with Ashworth in time for the summer.
As it stands, he will remain on leave until 2025. However, United’s new football kingpin is said to have held face-to-face talks with Amanda Staveley to reach a suitable agreement.
On the pitch, Newcastle could hinder the Red Devils’ plans again amid their reported interest in Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot.
According to the Mirror, Newcastle are ready to challenge United for the 29-year-old’s signature if he becomes a free agent in July.
He is entering the final two months of his Juventus contract, and United have been long-term admirers.
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Erik ten Hag targeted Rabiot after his summer-long hopes of reuniting with Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong died after his Old Trafford arrival in 2022.
But the France international’s demands temporarily ended United’s interest, prompting a £70million move for Real Madrid general Casemiro.
The M16 outfit’s interest is claimed to be alive ahead of a potential summer bargain, though, but Newcastle are also in the frame.
Both clubs are expected to strengthen their midfield options and could go head-to-head for Rabiot, who is keeping his potential paths open after five years in Italy.
Multiple United midfielders’ futures beyond the summer are uncertain ahead of a busy period of business at the start of Ratcliffe and INEOS’ reign.
Casemiro is expected to leave after just two years in England. There is said to be interest in making him one of the next blockbuster arrivals in Saudi Arabia.
Christian Eriksen, Donny van de Beek and Hannibal Mejbri could also depart, and United listened to offers for Scott McTominay last summer.
The Red Devils are reportedly keen for upgrades at centre-back, left-back, and upfront, in addition to in central midfield, which could stretch their budget amid Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Rabiot’s potential availability on a free transfer would emerge as an appealing option, but Newcastle may be working on beating them to his services.
