Manchester United launched an official bid for the Director of Football, while Southampton is fighting to hang onto Jason Wilcox, according to a Mirror story.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a co-owner of United, is currently in charge of football operations at Old Trafford and is eager to bring Wilcox into his department of new looks.
Ratcliffe and his INEOS group have already appointed Omar Berrada as the new CEO of the Manchester giants after acquiring a 27.7% stake in them. They have also generated agitation at Newcastle United by expressing interest in Dan Ashworth.
This time around on the South Coast, the Red Devils are not expected to stir any more agitation. According to reports, United has offered Wilcox’s salary to the Saints for a full year as compensation.
The 13-time Premier League champions believe this meets a release clause in the former Blackburn Rovers winger’s contract but the St Mary’s outfit are disputing the existence of this clause.
United’s timing and manner of approach for Wilcox has reportedly angered those at Southampton as the Saints are battling it out for an immediate return to the Premier League.
Further reports suggest that 52-year-old Wilcox has already handed in his resignation, a move that would trigger a 12-month notice period. New CEO Barrada knows the former England international from their time together at United’s city rivals Manchester City.
Wilcox spent 11 years at the Etihad, working his way from coach to academy director where he oversaw the development of players such as Phil Foden and Cole Palmer. Barrada is hopeful the ex-Leeds United man will work under Ashworth, spearheading United’s recruitment department.
Author’s Perspective
Southampton will be saddened by the loss of such a pivotal player as Wilcox. Even though the club is annoyed with United’s approach timing, it makes sense for a deal to be made now rather than in the off-season.
The Saints’ plans for the upcoming season, whether it is in the Championship or back in the top flight, will be hampered by losing the guy in charge of recruiting throughout the summer.
