Manchester United are weighing up a swoop for Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe amid uncertainty about Erik ten Hag's future, according to reports. Sir Jim Ratcliffe could be set to launch his latest heist at St. James' Park after luring the club's sporting director, Dan Ashworth, to M16.
United ruffled feathers on Tyneside with their pursuit of Ashworth and met resistance until a compensation package - believed to be worth around £2million - was agreed to allow him to join in July.
And the Red Devils could return for another key figure should they decide to sack Ten Hag in the coming weeks and months.
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According to GiveMeSport, INEOS are ready to persist with Ten Hag, hoping that the coach they backed with another £200million and a one-year contract extension in the summer can turn things around.
But it's claimed that they are already assessing alternative options in case United's worst start to a Premier League campaign continues.
Ten Hag oversaw the club's lowest-ever Premier League finish last term (eighth) but rescued his job by lifting the FA Cup, beating Liverpool and Manchester City on the way to glory at Wembley.
Two trophies in as many years - having also won the Carabao Cup last year - won't be his saving grace forever, though.
There is a widespread acceptance that seven wins in United's last 30 games in the league and Europe is far from good enough.
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The report adds that United's new football leadership team - chief executive Omar Berrada, technical director Jason Wilcox and Ashworth - are huge admirers of Howe.
And it's suggested that they may be willing to bite the bullet and commit to the 46-year-old's hefty compensation package to snatch him from Newcastle.
While United understand Howe will be difficult to appoint, his CV has impressed Old Trafford bosses and could inspire an audacious approach.
Graham Potter is said to join Thomas Tuchel as an alternative option on INEOS' shortlist should Howe be unattainable.
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The Englishman showcased his ability to spearhead a long-term project at AFC Bournemouth.
He took the Cherries from the depths of League Two to an established Premier League outfit across his 11-year reign.
Howe has also displayed his ability to quickly instil a style of play and develop young players, which helped him guide Newcastle into last season's Champions League.
After the October international break, more misery against Brentford, Fenerbahce and West Ham United could force United to accelerate their reported interest.
