Newcastle transfer news: Key man stays with Eddie Howe despite Manchester United links

There hasn't been significant progress in the way of Newcastle transfer news in the last few days. Since the January transfer window opened, Newcastle are yet to make a move for any of their top transfer targets and this can be attributed to the decision-making authorities at St James Park.

When it comes to decision-making, there aren't many higher up at Newcastle than Dan Ashworth. The sporting director who boasts an incredible career so far, even with the England national team, hasn't made any serious moves with regard to transfers so far this window - Or at least that's who it seems at face value.

Newcastle transfer news: Key man stays with Eddie Howe despite Manchester United links

This could be due to Ashworth being subject to transfer speculation himself. In December, we claimed that Dan Ashworth was on the radar of Manchester United, with their pending takeover seeing the club revitalise their hierarchical structure and wanting to lure Ashworth away from his current job at St James Park.

While Ashworth is still considered by Manchester United, he is set to stay with Newcastle United. At least throughout January, anyway. Speaking to Pod on the Tyne, Chris Waugh claimed that Ashworth would remain in the Newcastle hotseat throughout the January transfer window and if he does leave Newcastle soon after it closes, they will expect "significant compensation".

In order to build a sense of stability and push towards our objective, it's important we establish some consistency with our staff. Too many people leaving and too many new faces in a short period of time could derail the momentum and such an environment could have an impact on the players. Therefore, I would argue it is important for us to keep Dan Ashworth. A sporting director of his experience could serve us incredibly well in the long run.

What do you make of today's Newcastle transfer news?