Man Utd hold talks with Liverpool transfer chiefs as Ratcliffe era gathers pace
Manchester United have held talks with the figures that sparked Liverpool's successful transfer strategy as they look to usher in a new era at Old Trafford.
According to the Daily Mail, the Red Devils have been in conversation with Ludonautics, with the data company's leading figures playing a role in helping Sadio Mane, Andrew Robertson and Mo Salah arrive at Anfield. Liverpool's former director of research Dr Ian Graham runs the business having departed Anfield in 2022, after a decade at the club where he helped build a leading data science department, while also being involved in the selection of Jurgen Klopp to succeed Brendan Rodgers in 2015.
He is not the only ex-Liverpool figure to have been present in the company. Michael Edwards, who could yet return to Merseyside, has consulted for Ludonautics having rejected numerous offers of work. Edwards and Graham worked together for 10 years at Liverpool in addition to some time at Tottenham.
United are said to currently be in contact with a number of data and analytics providers, with no formal arrangement yet in place with Ludonautics. However, it appears abundantly clear that improving in the transfer market is a priority under the club's new stewardship.
Ratcliffe and INEOS have looked to instigate a number of changes at Old Trafford as the businessman purchased 27.7 per cent of the club. The new hierarchy has an ambition to employ best in class across the club and have already added Omar Berrada as the club's new CEO from Man City.
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Dan Ashworth also seems set to join as technical director, though he is currently on gardening leave from Newcastle as the clubs look to striker up an agreement. Dougie Freedman too has recently been linked with a move from Crystal Palace to become head of recruitment.
Ratcliffe has previously expressed his admiration of Ashworth and admitted some frustration with his current employers. He said: "Dan Ashworth is clearly one of top sporting directors in the world.
"I have no doubt he is a very capable person. He is interested in Manchester United because it’s the biggest challenge, at the biggest club in the world.
Michael Edwards has been linked with a return to Liverpool (Liverpool FC via Getty Images)"It would be different at Manchester City, because you’re maintaining a level. Here it’s a significant rebuilding job. And I think he would be a very good addition. He needs to decide if he is going to make that jump. We have had words with Newcastle, who would be disappointed.
“I understand why they would be disappointed, but then you can’t criticise Dan because it’s a transient industry. You can understand why Dan would be interested, because it’s the ultimate challenge.
"We'll have to see how it unfolds. What I do think is completely absurd, is suggesting a man who is really good at his job sits in his garden for one and a half years.”
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