Manchester United approach Southampton about Jason Wilcox

Manchester United have approached Southampton about their director of football Jason Wilcox.

It emerged in February United wanted to hire Wilcox as their technical director following a recommendation from incoming chief executive Omar Berrada, who worked with Wilcox during his six-year tenure as the academy director at Manchester City.

United sources maintain they have been respectful and followed the correct process in formally contacting Southampton about Wilcox.

United have offered Southampton the equivalent of a full year's salary as compensation even though he only joined the Championship side nine months ago.

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Well-placed sources have described the compensation fee as a "sticking point" as Southampton hold out for a bigger package. United are still hopeful of an amicable outcome.

United have already held discussions with Newcastle United about sporting director Dan Ashworth, who has been placed on gardening leave.

Ashworth joined Newcastle from Brighton for a fee believed to be under £4million in May 2022 and United insist they will not offer an eight-figure fee for the 53-year-old.