Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth is entirely committed to the project.
That is the view of head coach Eddie Howe, who may be about to lose a key partner at the club.
Ashworth is the subject of serious interest from Manchester United, with incoming investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe a big admirer.
Asked about the rumors, Howe said: I've got no doubt that Dan is here for the long term but it's probably a question for Dan rather than me.
Of course I've spoken to Dan but not necessarily about that. It's very difficult to comment on speculation, whether that be a player or someone in Dan's position.
"I think whenever someone is in the role of importance that Dan is, hugely important and he's done a really good job in helping us in loads of different ways, building departments, the training ground, he's connected with everything that goes on in terms of the decision making at the football club.
He's hugely important and has been a really calming influence behind the scenes, his vast experience has really helped."