Dan Ashworth has already been told who his first two Manchester United signings should be

Kaoru Mitoma could end up moving to the same club as Dan Ashworth for the second time in his career.

That’s if former Manchester United striker Louis Saha gets his wish, after the Frenchman said he wants to see the Japan international move to Old Trafford.

Mitoma was magnificent for Brighton last season, emerging as one of the most highly rated wingers in the Premier League, but has not scored since a brace against Bournemouth in September.

Irrespective of that goal drought, Saha wants to see Mitoma in a red shirt. He told Betfred: “He’s a terrific player that shows a lot of composure and unpredictability, so he provides a lot of guarantees for his teammates and his manager.

“He knows where to position himself, he’s a very hard worker and you can see that he studies the game. You can understand why he can easily adapt when you consider those features and he would be a perfect fit. 

“Regarding whether I’d like to see him move to Old Trafford or not is a really easy question to answer because he’s a terrific player.” 

Ivan Toney also backed to join Manchester United

Newcastle’s sporting director Dan Ashworth was largely responsible for Mitoma’s move to Brighton when he was in his role as the South Coast club’s technical director.

Multiple reports claim Ashworth is keen on a move to Manchester United after being identified by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford for a role in a new-look Red Devils set-up.

Another player Saha would like to see brought into the club is Brentford forward Ivan Toney. The England striker recently returned to the Brentford fold having served a lengthy betting ban and was outstanding for the Bees last season.

“I have no doubt that he (Toney) would have an impact because he has the same fire as Rasmus [Hojlund] and he definitely wants to make a point,” Saha said.

“He’s got a good level of experience in the Premier League, so it makes sense why the club would be interested in signing him and if he’s shown signs that he prefers to play for Manchester United because of their history and style of football, then this is a brilliant combination.”