Manchester United have approached Southampton regarding director of football Jason Wilcox, according to Sky Sports.
The Red Devils want to make the former Blackburn Rovers winger their new technical director as part of a recruitment shake-up under INEOS boss Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
United have reportedly made an offer equivalent to a year of his salary and believe this should be enough to trigger a buy-out, but the Saints have denied the existence of a release clause.
Southampton are annoyed by United’s approach and timing, but the Reds believe they have been respectful in their pursuit of the Saints’ director.
The Saints believe the news could upset Wilcox, who has only been in the job for nine months.
Southampton want a bigger fee to let him leave at a crucial stage of their season, while United think they have met the contractual agreements to take him.
Man United’s new Chief Executive Officer, Omar Berrada, knows Wilcox from their time together at Manchester City.
The Premier League-winning wideman had worked his way up from youth coach to academy director during 11 years at the club.
United’s efforts to revamp their recruitment department aren’t limited to Wilcox. They’ve also set their sights on Newcastle United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth.
However, securing his services might prove even more challenging. Newcastle are reportedly demanding a significant compensation fee to part ways with Ashworth.
Newcastle have no plans to let the Englishman join United for free, and negotiations are dragging on while he remains on gardening leave.
United are also looking for someone to oversee player pathways throughout the INEOS group, which includes clubs Nice in France and Lausanne in Switzerland.
United will have to move swiftly and pay a premium if they want these directors in place before the summer transfer window or risk derailing their rebuild under new ownership.
