Manchester United's former sporting director Dan Ashworth is reportedly being considered for a shock move to Arsenal as they search for their Edu replacement.
The Gunners lost Edu in November after the sporting director remarkably resigned from his role at the Emirates Stadium. Since then, Arsenal have not appointed a replacement with Jason Ayto taking on the role having previously been his deputy.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal are keen to appoint a new sporting director in March as they make their preparations for the summer transfer window. While Ayto is considered to be a candidate for the job, so is Ashworth, ex-Atletico Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta, Real Sociedad's Roberto Olabe and AS Monaco's Thiago Scuro.
READ MORE: I heard angry Manchester United chant - it showed who is to blame for nightmare season
READ MORE: Andre Onana breaks silence after Manchester United mistakes vs Ipswich Town
United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had a strong belief in Ashworth having negotiated a long and drawn out compensation package with Newcastle United for his services. Yet despite only arriving officially in July, the 53-year-old had left Old Trafford by December over what is thought to have been a difference of opinion with Ineos hierarchy.
In their financial figures for the second quarter, United were revealed to have spent more than £4m on parting ways with Ashworth before the end of his contract. Prior to joining the Reds, Ashworth had built his reputation with a host of successful roles.
With England's FA he spearheaded their revival under Gareth Southgate before helping make Brighton and Hove Albion a regular in the Premier League. His most recent job before United was Newcastle where he helped rebuild them into a Champions League squad again.
Despite lining up several potential replacements for Edu, it is believed Arsenal have not yet formally offered the job to any candidate.
