Man Utd technical director search takes huge twist as 'angered' club reject approach before bombshell claim made

Manchester United have had an approach rejected as they continue their search for a new technical director, it has been reported - but a new saga has since developed.

One of the first priorities of new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is to bolster United's staff behind-the-scenes ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Ratcliffe and INEOS have already reached an agreement for Manchester City's Omar Berrada to join the club as the new chief executive officer, with his start date still to be determined.

Meanwhile, United are locked in talks with Newcastle over the potential appointment of Dan Ashworth as sporting director. The 53-year-old is currently on gardening leave, but United are thus far unwilling to match the amount of compensation that Newcastle are requesting in exchange for his release.

Ratcliffe isn't stopping there, though, and is keen to appoint a technical director to assist Ashworth as part of the new structure.

Sky Sports report that United have made an approach to Championship side Southampton for their director of football Jason Wilcox.

Wilcox, who received three caps for England during his playing career, was academy director at Manchester City between 2017 and 2023 before taking up his current role.

But Sky add that Southampton are 'annoyed' at the 'manner and timing' of United's approach, particularly as they are locked in the midst of a fierce battle for automatic promotion from the Championship.

It is even claimed that the club are 'angered' that the former Blackburn and Leeds winger has been unsettled at such a stage in the season, and want a higher compensation fee.

The report adds, however, that United 'believe they have been respectful and followed correct processes' throughout negotiations.

And according to talkSPORT, the approach has been rejected by Southampton - meaning talks will continue in United's pursuit to appoint Wilcox, who is said to be a key target of incoming CEO Berrada, as a key cog in their new recruitment structure.

Fabrizio Romano then dropped the bombshell claim that Wilcox has resigned from his role at St Mary's Stadium - although this has yet to be confirmed by Southampton, and other reports claim that he has simply informed the Championship side of his desire to leave.

🚨🔴 Jason Wilcox has resigned from Southampton — he’s set to join Manchester United as new technical director!

Southampton refuse to accept fee so Wilcox will resign as he wants to join Man United project.

Former Man City Head of Academy will be key part of Man United new era. pic.twitter.com/RBbpAh0q4j

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 1, 2024

It is worth noting, amid the chaos, that the Saints are currently in action in the Championship at Ipswich Town.

PA's Simon Peach adds that, even if Wilcox's resignation is made official, he will need to serve a 12-month notice period before he can take up his post at Old Trafford.

SPORTbible has requested confirmation from the club on the matter.