Earlier this week, Newcastle officially announced the arrival of Dan Ashworth as their new Sporting Director, after pinching him from Premier League rivals Brighton.
A Sporting Director – or Director of Football, as they are often called – usually operates in the shadows, so few people will be aware of what the 51-year-old is capable of.
However, something Ashworth did back in August 2021 suggests Newcastle have a gem on their hands.
What’s the story?
Well, during his time at the Amex Stadium, Ashworth made a number of intelligent signings, but it was a target he failed to land which actually reflects well on him in this situation.
According to the Daily Mail, Brighton were in talks with Benfica over a £25m deal for Darwin Nunez, but the Seagulls were ultimately unsuccessful in their pursuit.
Now, after a stunning season in which he scored 34 goals in 41 games, the 22-year-old is closing in on an £85m move to Liverpool.
Of course, you may argue that Ashworth’s failure to land the Uruguay international doesn’t reflect very well on him, but we would argue otherwise.
In our view, it speaks volumes that Ashworth was able to identify Nunez before he burst onto the European scene and attracted the likes of Jürgen Klopp.
Had he managed to sign a player who is now worth £85m for just £25m in August, perhaps more people would be aware of Ashworth’s talents as a Sporting Director.
Newcastle have Darwin Nunez alternatives
Interestingly, Nunez was actually a target for Newcastle before Liverpool stepped up their interest.
However, it seems Eddie Howe has some alternatives in mind.
One striker who could be joining the Magpies is Hugo Ekitike, as a £30m deal has been agreed with Reims.
Elsewhere, Eddie Nketiah is said to be a target, while Newcastle could also make a move for Everton marksman Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Evidently, Newcastle have plenty of options in mind as they look to spend their newfound riches this summer.
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