First name emerges in Man Utd's search for Dan Ashworth replacement and it'd shock world football to its core

The first name to be linked with replacing Dan Ashworth at Manchester United following his shock dismissal has emerged.

Ashworth left his position as Man United's sporting director after only five months at the club.

He was recruited from Newcastle United, but they have come to a mutual agreement to part ways.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe signed off on Ashworth's departure following talks between him and chief executive Omar Berrarda after Man United's damaging home defeat to Nottingham Forest last Saturday.

A club statement read: "Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement.

"We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future."

A report claims Ratcliffe was left 'infuriated' with Ashworth's comments over previous manager Erik ten Hag.

It appears INEOS have a person in mind to replace Ashworth as Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio claims Atletico Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta is on the short-list.

Berta has been in his role at Atletico for 11 years but will leave at the end of the season.

He arrived in 2013, having previously worked in Italy with Parma then Genoa.

With the Spanish giants, Berta has helped the side win two La Liga titles, the Europa League, the UEFA Super Cup and the Spanish Super Cup.

Andrea Berta has been linked with replacing Dan Ashworth at Manchester United. Image: Getty

Ashworth's surprise exit comes a day after Man United succumbed to Nottingham Forest, who ran out 3-2 winners at Old Trafford.

The defeat leaves the Red Devils languishing in 13th place in the table, with just 19 points on the board.

Ruben Amorim has suffered back-to-back defeats as his side return to action on Thursday when they face Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League before resuming their faltering league campaign against cross-town rivals Manchester City on Sunday.