Dan Ashworth wants Liverpool target as his first signing for Man United this summer - report

Manchester United could rival Liverpool for the services of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi if Dan Ashworth can be appointed in time, according to the Telegraph.

Ashworth was interested in signing Guehi for Newcastle United before leaving the Magpies and is known to be a fan of the England international.

However, Newcastle have placed their former sporting director on a gardening leave after he told them if wants to join the Red Devils, and the possibility of Man United entering the bidding for the Palace star may rest on whether or not Ashworth can be appointed in time for the summer window.

The Magpies are playing hardball as the Old Trafford club look to appoint the former Brighton & Hove Albion technical director as their sporting director.

They want compensation well in excess of £10 million to release Ashworth from his 20-month gardening leave period, and Man United will hope an agreement can be struck as the 52-year-old is under a contract that prevents him from working for anyone else into 2025 unless compensation is agreed.

The Red Devils need to strengthen at the back ahead of next season, and Guehi fits the bill having impressed for the Eagles and the Three Lions.

Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans could be on their way out this summer when their contracts expire, while Lisandro Martinez has regularly struggled with his fitness.

Harry Maguire also struggles at times as highlighted against Luton Town, and Guehi will be an upgrade on his international teammate if snapped up.

The 23-year-old is contracted to Palace until 2026 and there is little prospect of him signing a new deal, so his value will be at its highest this summer and Man United have a chance to land him as long as they can get Ashworth working for them as soon as possible.

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