Dan Ashworth linked with shock move to Man Utd's Premier League rivals 24 hours after ruthless Old Trafford exit

Dan Ashworth could join one of Manchester United's main Premier League rivals following his shock Old Trafford exit.

Ashworth, who was headhunted by INEOS, left his role as Man United sporting director on Sunday in wake of the club's damaging 3-2 home defeat to Nottingham Forest.

He lasted just five months in the role, having held crunch talks with chief executive Omar Berrada, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe signing off on his departure.

A bombshell report claims he 'infuriated' Ratcliffe with his comments about previous boss Erik ten Hag, who was sacked in October.

A name has emerged to replace Ashworth at Man United in what would be a huge appointment.

As for Ashworth, he is expected to have no shortage of offers to return to football.

And, according to The Athletic, several people in the game are privately pointing out how Arsenal are searching for a new sporting director following Edu's resignation last month.

What's more, Arsenal's managing director Richard Garlick worked with Ashworth during their West Brom days.

However, there are no indication of anything substantive at this stage.

Dan Ashworth has been linked with Arsenal following his Manchester United departure. Image: Getty

Arsenal have a sporting director vacancy following Edu's shock departure.

The Brazilian, who played for the club as a player, rejoined the Gunners as technical director before being promoted to sporting director.

He was heavily involved in appointing Mikel Arteta, with Arsenal winning the FA Cup at the end of his first season in charge.

Edu has been widely credited for helping transform Arsenal back into genuine title challengers, having gone toe-to-toe with Manchester City over the years.

They have ended the two previous campaigns as runners-up behind champions Man City.

During his tenure, Martin Odegaard, Ben White, Gabriel and Declan Rice have all arrived and become key players.