Scot Freedman in frame for key recruitment position at Old Trafford

Former scotland strike rdougie Freedman is being lined up to become the new head of recruitment at Manchester United.

According to various reports, the Crystal Palace sporting director has been identified as the preferred candidate for the role following the partial takeover of the club by Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos group. United are expected to make an official approach for the 49-yearold in the coming days, with Freedman said to be open to the move despite his strong relationship with Palace chairman Steve Parish.

As a player, Freedman was a cult hero at Selhurst Park, making 368 appearances and scoring 108 goals across two spells.

He also had a successful period as manager before returning as sporting director in 2017. He played a key role in the appointment of Patrick Viera as manager in 2021 and has also been praised for his player recruitment, which has included deals for talented duo Marc Guehi and Michael Olise as well as the loan signing of Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher.

Other notable acquisitions include the £18 million signing of Cheick Doucoure from Lens, Eberechi Eze for £16m from QPR and the £15m arrival of defender Joachim Andersen from Lyon.

United’s interest comes after prospective technical director Dan Ashworth and chief executive Omar Berrada were both placed on gardening leave from Newcastle United and Manchester City respectively.

Freedman, who was born in Glasgow but spent his entire playing career in England, scored on his de but for scotland in a 2-1 win over Latvia in 2001 but only managed one more cap.