Where Manchester United stand on Jason Wilcox deal and compensation fee after official approach made

Manchester United are hoping to reach a compromise with Southampton after making an official approach to Southampton for director of football Jason Wilcox.

United have been working on a deal to appoint Wilcox for the last couple of months and view the 53-year-old as a key figure in their new sporting structure. United insist they have been respectful and followed correct processes by making an official approach for his services.

It is also understood that United have agreed to pay Southampton the equivalent of a full year of his salary as compensation, despite him having only been with them for nine months. United sources say they hope to reach a 'reasonable and amicable outcome for all parties' and would prefer if the saga was not drawn out.

ManchesterWorld understand Southampton are set to reject United’s current proposal and they would be prepared to place Wilcox on gardening leave for 12 months if the two clubs cannot agree a more suitable compensation package. It is understood Wilcox would have to serve a 12 month notice period at St. Mary's Stadium even if he resigned, with United eager to agree a compensation package so that they could bring him to the club this summer.

There is also an element of time pressure added to the saga, with Liverpool also keen to appoint Wilcox as part of their own structural overhaul.

If he does ending up moving to Old Trafford, the intention would be for Wilcox to report to a sporting director, with Newcastle United's Dan Ashworth currently the sole target for the role. Ashworth has already been placed on gardening leave after asking to depart the club amid United’s pursuit of him.

Wilcox resigned as Manchester City’s academy director in January last year before taking up the director of football role at Southampton. City wanted to keep him at the club and made a formal offer for him to stay, but he opted for a new challenge after nine years with the club.