What Sir Jim Ratcliffe has said about Jean-Claude Blanc's qualities amid Manchester United links

Impending Manchester United investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already outlined what qualities Jean-Claude Blanc would bring to Old Trafford amid reports linking him with succeeding Richard Arnold.

Following 16 years at the club, Arnold stepped down from his post as chief executive on Wednesday, highlighting that a significant restructure could in the offing at Old Trafford. Ratcliffe, who is leading INEOS' bid to secure a 25 per cent stake in the club, is understood to be on the cusp of wrapping up the deal.

INEOS, who already own French side OGC Nice and Swiss outfit FC Lausanne-Sport, as part of the agreement with the Glazers, are reportedly set to be handed control of all football operations at the club. Ratcliffe is understood to have held talks with Joel Glazer about potential changes to United's structure, including possible personnel changes.

READ MORE: Cameroon issue injury update on United goalkeeper Andre Onana

READ MORE: Why United's January transfer plans could be impacted by Everton points deduction

Arnold's exit suggests that INEOS wants to fill United's hierarchy with football specialists with good CVs and impressive track records. Blanc has been heavily linked with replacing him, while recruitment specialist Paul Mitchell, who previously worked at Tottenham Hotspur, has been linked with becoming sporting director.

Blanc, who previously worked at European heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, is the chief executive of INEOS Sport, overseeing their sports portfolio, which includes football, cycling and sailing, plus others. He joined the chemical giant in February, with his arrival being announced last December.

Ratcliffe, at the time, outlined why INEOS had made the decision to hire the