Man United not ruling out making another executive appointment following shock sacking of sporting director Dan Ashworth

Manchester United will not target a like-for-like replacement for Dan Ashworth but are not ruling out making another executive appointment following the shock exit of their sporting director.

United are currently contemplating how best to approach Ashworth’s shock departure after just five months at Old Trafford.

With a core executive team including CEO Omar Berrada, technical director Jason Wilcox, interim director of recruitment Christopher Vivell and INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford already in situ, United are not expected to directly replace Ashworth.

It is understood Berrada and Wilcox will spilt the majority of Ashworth’s responsibilities as part of a reshaping of each individual’s hierarchical responsibilities.

Vivell will continue to lead recruitment work and will be assisted by director of negotiations Matt Hargreaves.

However, United are not ruling out adding another key member to their executive team with a view to someone taking control of the strategic and operational responsibilities vacated by Ashworth.

Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox are set to spilt the majority of Ashworth’s responsibilities

Any new appointment would work with interim director of recruitment Christopher Vivell

Sources have indicated any new appointment would also have a firm grasp of the transfer market to work alongside Vivell.

Indeed, it remains to be seen whether Vivell’s current interim role turns into a full-time position.

Any new appointment would take on greater responsibility for the identification of transfer targets if Vivell departs.

There will be no shortage of candidates for the position given the attraction of working at Old Trafford.

Paris Saint-Germain advisor Luis Campos has already been linked with the role, while United may also look to reignite their long-standing interest Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman.

United have a shown a strong interest in the Palace executive previously given the 50-year-old’s excellent track record in identifying untapped talent from across European football having played a lead role in signing Michael Olise, Marc Guehi, Adam Wharton, Eberechi Eze, Cheick Doucoure and Jean-Phillipe Mateta – all of whom have been targets for top clubs across the continent.

His knowledge of the British market may also make him attractive amid indications that United would like to strengthen their homegrown connections in the playing squad.

Roberto Olabe is leaving his role as Real Sociedad sporting director at the end of the season and may also be an option.