LATEST NEWS: Southampton manager Russell Martin has spoken out about Manchester United’s pursuit of Jason Wilcox.

Southampton manager Russell Martin has finally addressed Manchester United’s interest in their technical director, Jason Wilcox. Amidst a significant overhaul of Manchester United’s football operations following the INEOS minority takeover, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team have been actively reshaping the club’s leadership structure. This began with the appointment of Omar Berrada as the new CEO, who reportedly engaged in secretive meetings as he gears up to assume his new responsibilities.

INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is actively seeking to appoint a sporting director for Manchester United, with Dan Ashworth from Newcastle United emerging as a top contender. It’s part of INEOS’s long-term strategy for the club, with satisfaction anticipated upon his arrival in September.

Additionally, United is in pursuit of a technical director, with Southampton’s Jason Wilcox reportedly leading the race. Despite United’s formal approach and an offer equivalent to Wilcox’s yearly salary, Southampton expressed frustration, fearing the disruption it may cause to their promotion aspirations in the final stretch of the season.

Although Liverpool was rumored to potentially intervene in United’s deal, Wilcox reportedly expressed his preference for United, driven by the desire to contribute to INEOS’s revival of the club.

However, a recent report from The Mirror suggests that Southampton is hesitant to allow Wilcox to depart, despite rumors of an agreement between him and United. Following Southampton’s recent defeat to Ipswich Town, manager Russell Martin refused to discuss Wilcox’s potential departure, indicating a reluctance to see him leave.

Furthermore, miscommunication over Wilcox’s buyout clause complicates United’s pursuit. While United believed their offer covered the buyout clause, Southampton maintains that no such clause exists in Wilcox’s contract.