British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe is still in the process of finalising his acquisition of a 25% stake in Manchester United but a couple of significant changes are on the horizon.
Man United’s transfer market strategy has been a major talking point over the years, and Ratcliffe is keen to shift the landscape by setting new rules.
The Daily Mail reports that Ratcliffe will instruct the new-look recruitment team to prioritise the acquisition of homegrown talent over foreign stars in a bid to steer Man United back to the pinnacle of English football.
Man United have previously shown a commitment to domestic talent. But there has been greater emphasis on recruiting players from the foreign market in recent years, and Ratcliffe is keen to buck the trend.
Since Ferguson’s departure in 2013, only seven of Man United’s major signings have been homegrown, and Ratcliffe believes that a roster familiar with the rigours of English football offers a distinct advantage.
The sporting director role remains a prominent topic of discussion ahead of Ratcliffe’s arrival, with at least two senior recruitment executives set to be appointed, jeopardising football director John Murtough’s position.
Former Tottenham Hotspur talent spotter Paul Mitchell is one of several prominent names floated alongside Michael Edwards and Dan Ashworth, although the latter is expected to remain at Newcastle United.
Man United have a couple of English targets on their radar, including Brentford striker Ivan Toney – although they will face competition from Chelsea and Arsenal.
Even though the Bees are also reluctant to cut ties with their 20-goal striker, Toney is reportedly open to a summer departure from the Gtech Community Stadium.
Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi is also subject to interest from the Red Devils, but they will need to fork out at least £60 million to get a deal over the line.
