Dan Ashworth, set to become Manchester United first sporting director following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority takeover, is reportedly planning to make Chelsea chief analyst Kyle Macaulay his first signing at Old Trafford.

This move is part of a broader strategy to overhaul the playing squad and strengthen the support team at Manchester United.

Macaulay, who has a track record of success with Brighton and Chelsea, is seen as a key appointment in this effort by Manchester United.

“Former Brighton scout Macaulay is on [Ashworth’s] wish list,” reports The Sun’s Alan Nixon.

“Ashworth… wants an experienced head of recruitment and will also be looking at increasing his staff, with Macaulay a key appointment.

“United have also set up a move for Ipswich technical director Sam Williams to join them and find emerging talent…”

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