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Newcastle are preparing themselves for an approach from United as they fear that Ashworth will depart, moving closer to his family who live in the west Midlands.
The Magpies have asked to be reassured by the former FA director of elite development, but that has not taken place either publicly or privately as fears are growing over a potential link-up with Ratcliffe.
United football director John Murtough could be kept on in a more administrative capacity if Ashworth were to join, but club staff are being kept in the dark over their futures with Ratcliffe and co leading the sporting side of the Red Devils.
