Jaap Stam ‘lined up for shock Man Utd return’ in rarely-seen role as Jim Ratcliffe continues Old Trafford rebuild

JAAP STAM is reportedly being lined up for a shock return to Manchester United.

The Dutch icon, 51, is widely regarded as one of the game’s greatest defenders.

He spent three years at United between 1998 and 2001.

Stam, currently in charge of seventh-tier Dutch side DOS Kampen, won the Premier League title in each season at the club.

And he even lifted a Treble in his debut campaign under Sir Alex Ferguson.

But Stam could now make a glorious return to Old Trafford in a rarely-seen position.

TuttoMercatoWeb claims Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been in regular touch with Stam.

And he wants the former Reading boss to work at United as link between the club and technical staff.

Stam has plenty of experience behind the scenes, having also worked as a manager.

He has taken charge of Reading, Zwolle and Feyenoord, with his last role at FC Cincinnati ending in 2021.

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But it’s Stam’s experienced playing career which could really benefit United.

After playing for several smaller Dutch sides, Stam stepped up at PSV Eindhoven where he won a title and three cups.

He then moved to United in 1998 and lifted six major trophies.

Stam was sold to Lazio in 2001 after Fergie, who later admitted it was a “mistake”, thought he was on the decline.

Stam spent another three years there and lifted the Italian Cup before joining AC Milan in 2004.

He became part of an amazing defence featuring Dida, Cafu, Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini.

But amazingly they failed to win Serie A, and also suffered that famous Champions League final comeback defeat to Liverpool.

After two years at the San Siro, Stam then spent another two at Ajax before retiring in 2008.

He also won 67 caps for Holland before moving into management.

And Stam’s journey could now continue back at United in a brand new role.