SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has set his sights on former Newcastle player Hugo Viana to join Manchester United’s board as Chief Operating Officer.
Currently serving as the Director of Football at Sporting Lisbon, Viana caught the attention of the British billionaire by assisting in a significant transfer deal for United in 2020.
Ratcliffe was forced to narrow down his options for the role after seeing first choice Pedro Marques get snapped up by Liverpool.
But the Red Devils could have a battle on to secure Viana as his former side Newcastle are also reportedly interested in recruiting him as their new sporting director.
This comes after the Magpies’ current director of football Dan Ashworth was placed on gardening leave earlier this year – ironically because he’s expected to join Manchester United.
United are trying to thrash out a compensation deal with the Magpies, who are demanding double the £10million offered.
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Regarding the pursuit of Viana, a report revealed: “Liverpool’s signing of Pedro Marques reduces options for Manchester United’s Chief Operating Officer role.
“Sources have told me to keep an eye on Hugo Viana, who, according to the I newspaper, is also amongst the names Newcastle want to replace Ashworth.”
One transfer United fans will commend Viana for was his assistance from Sporting’s end to ensure the transfer for Bruno Fernandes in 2020 went smoothly.
The report says: “He is well respected within INEOS, and I’m told also played a part in ensuring Bruno’s transfer to United went as smoothly as it could. It’s thought he’s interested in working on a new project.”
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Viana had an underwhelming stint at St James’ Park after arriving on Tyneside in 2002 from Sporting.
Lasting four terms at the club the 29-cap Portugal star spent two of them on loan back at his former side in Lisbon and with Spanish giants Valencia.
While the former midfielder’s playing career may not have been memorable to fans he redeemed himself on the board at Sporting.
The 41-year-old is also well respected at Ratcliffe’s INEOS and the British billionaire recognises Viana’s ability to navigate negotiations and build a successful squad over what is expected to be a hectic summer at Old Trafford.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
