Man Utd takeover latest: Sir Jim Ratcliffe targets Paul Mitchell as sporting director if successful

• British billionaire has submitted United bid
• Mancunian Paul Mitchell linked with role
• Has worked at Southampton, Spurs and RB Leipzig

WHAT HAPPENED? The Independent claim the INEOS magnate has earmarked former Tottenham and RB Leipzig director of football Mitchell – who is from Stalybridge in Greater Manchester – for a senior role in United's structure.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Mitchell, whose reputation as a recruitment guru is worldwide, has confirmed he is leaving his current position at Monaco and hinted that he is looking for a Premier League role. Talks with Liverpool have reportedly broken down and Mitchell has been regularly linked with United, even meeting with Ralf Rangnick last season.

AND WHAT'S MORE: Ratcliffe is battling with a Qatari consortium led by Sheikh Jassim al Thani for the purchase of United. Both groups submitted their improved bids this week, with current owners the Glazers looking to sell for a figure in the region of £5bn-6bn.

IN TWO PHOTOS:

Getty/GOAL

Getty

DID YOU KNOW? Mitchell is credited with the 'discovery' of Dele Alli when he was at MK Dons, signing him for just £5m for Spurs. Mitchell had previously been head of recruitment at Milton Keynes.

WHAT NEXT FOR THE UNITED TAKEOVER? The Glazers will consider all the bids submitted this week before making a decision on the sale of United. They are under no obligation to sell and could still accept a minority stake offer, retaining overall control.