Newcastle United will demand a “big package” from Man United to allow sporting director Dan Ashworth depart.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Tottenham and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson claimed he’d be baffled if Ashworth opted to join the unstable Red Devils and leave the exciting “project” on Tyneside.

It has been widely reported that the former Brighton chief will replace United’s current director John Murtough, especially after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25 per cent takeover was confirmed was Christmas Eve.

Newcastle to demand ‘big package’ to seal Ashworth swap – pundit

Ashworth moved to the high-spending Magpies in February last year after his successful three-year spell with the Seagulls where he developed his reputation as a quality talent spotter.

Robinson suggested that the United are not an upgrade on what Ashworth currently has at St James’ Park and backed Newcastle to be a “huge” club in the coming years.

“Newcastle made a big effort to get him,” he told Football Insider.

“I think from his point of view and the recruitment side of things – what he’s dealing with at Newcastle and the opportunity to build on what you’ve already started.

“The financial backing you will have at Newcastle compared to the uncertainty and upheaval at Man United.

“You’d question why you would look at leaving Newcastle if Man United are looking to get him.

“Financially, it would cost Man United a big package to get him out of Newcastle and then you run the risk of him turning round and saying he’ll stay.

“He’s part of a big project. It’s going to be a huge football club in the next two, five, ten years or however long.