SIR DAVE BRAILSFORD is set to play a big role in Manchester United’s summer business.
The cycling guru, 60, is Ineos’ performance director.
Following Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s partial takeover of the Red Devils, a number of key decisions have already been made at executive level.
Richard Arnold and John Murtough have departed as CEO and football director respectively.
Jason Wilcox has started work as technical director following his arrival from Southampton, while Omar Berrada will begin as CEO in July after negotiating a move from Manchester City.
Dan Ashworth wants to join as sporting director, but Man Utd are still negotiating with Newcastle for the former FA chief’s exit.
With Berrada and Ashworth yet to arrive, the Mail claim that Brailsford has been taking a leading role.
They add that he has been in talks with agents of potential summer targets, as well as club representatives from elsewhere.
With Ineos about to go into their first transfer window at the helm, Brailsford has taken on a hands-on approach.
He does not have heaps of experience when it comes to negotiating high level football transfers.
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Although he has worked at Ligue 1 side Nice, also owned by Ineos.
Man Utd insist that, rather than talking about financial elements, Brailsford has been using discussions to sell potential targets on Ineos’ vision and strategy.
When the Red Devils’ new structure is fully settled, Brailsford is likely to return to a role based in “overseeing sporting performance”.
Man Utd are set to sanction plenty of high-profile exits as they look to clear room for fresh signings.
It has already been confirmed that Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane will leave upon the expiry of their contracts this summer.
They could be followed by Casemiro, Antony and Christian Eriksen – with all three reportedly available for transfer.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is another that could depart, with United demanding £20million for the right-back, who will have one year remaining on his contract come the end of the season.
The Red Devils have struggled desperately with injuries in defence this season.
Veteran midfielder Casemiro has had to cover at centre-back in recent weeks.
While Jonny Evans has also seen plenty of game time this term.
This summer United are set to target a new centre-back.
