Manchester United confirm John Murtough exit as Ineos overhaul begins

Manchester United’s football director John Murtough will step down this week as the INEOS-led restructure at Old Trafford begins.

Murtough has spent over 10 years at United but has effectively been replaced by two imminent hires in Dan Ashworth, once he finishes his gardening leave at Newcastle, and Southampton’s director of football Jason Wilcox, in talks about becoming technical director.

United have now officially announced Murtough's departure and hope to have Wilcox in place to lead the first INEOS-era transfer window this summer.

They are negotiating with Southampton to cut short his 12-month period of gardening leave, but Ashworth would potentially cost as much as £20million to release from his contract at St James’ Park.

“We want to thank John for his loyal service over many years, and for his support and integrity during this period of transition,” said United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

"He leaves with our best wishes for the future."

Co-chairman Joel Glazer added: “After 11 years of tireless work for the club, John has mutually agreed with us that now is the right time to step aside and allow the new football leadership structure to be put in place.

"He will always be welcome back at Manchester United as a friend of the club."

Murtough joined United in 2013 and earned several promotions until he was eventually named the club's first football director in 2021.

He oversaw transfer activity in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's final season in charge and appointed the current manager Erik ten Hag while delivering big-name signings like Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane, Antony, Casemiro, Mason Mount and Andre Onana.

The 50-year-old's mixed transfer record included deals to sign Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Rasmus Hojlund and Altay Bayindir. His role also placed him in charge of the women's and academy team operations.

However, changes have been sought after Ratcliffe completed his £1billion deal to secure a 25 per cent stake from the Glazer family.

Ratcliffe retains control of the sporting operation at Old Trafford as he injects cash into the club. INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford is working on a root-and-branch analysis of the club's operations.

Murtough is expected to be just one of a host of significant departures in the coming months.