Newcastle set for payout if Eddie Howe joins Man Utd

Newcastle United could be in line for a significant compensation payment if former head coach Eddie Howe makes a return to management with Manchester United.

As reported by the i Paper, Howe has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick at Old Trafford, with the 48-year-old reportedly interested in the opportunity despite initially wanting a break from football.

Man Utd must pay to have Howe

Manchester United would need to pay significant compensation to Newcastle if they want to appoint Howe, despite him currently being without a club.

The Telegraph reports that the Red Devils would have to fork out up to £6m to land Howe, although that figure may be due to reduce to £3m soon. 

Our former boss left St James’ Park in July after four-and-a-half years in charge, having guided us back into the Champions League and ended our 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by winning the Carabao Cup in 2025.

However, his departure came with several years reportedly remaining on his contract, meaning Newcastle could still be entitled to a substantial payment if he takes another job.

The Chronicle previously reported that Howe was earning around £6m per year at Newcastle and had at least three years remaining on his deal.

There could also be further costs if Howe wanted to bring members of his former backroom staff with him to Old Trafford.

Howe tempted by Man Utd job

The compensation issue is another factor Manchester United would need to consider as they weigh up their options following a difficult start to the season under Carrick.

As reported by the i Paper, director of football Jason Wilcox is understood to favour Howe because of his extensive Premier League experience, while former Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann is also among the candidates being considered.

Crucially, Howe is reportedly open to taking the job despite initially planning to step away from management and recharge after leaving Newcastle.

For us, the prospect of seeing Howe take charge of Manchester United would be a strange one given everything he achieved on Tyneside. His departure marked the end of a significant chapter in our recent history, with the Carabao Cup triumph and two Champions League qualifications among the highlights of his tenure.

Whether Manchester United are prepared to pay the compensation required remains to be seen, but if Howe is their preferred candidate and he is genuinely keen on the role, the finances should not be a problem.