Man Utd's makes major change to scouting network bringing in consultancy

Manchester United have begun a sweeping overhaul of their recruitment department, signalling a new era for the club’s approach to scouting and talent identification.

The shake-up comes after co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe publicly criticised United’s data analysis as being “in the last century,” highlighting the urgent need for modernisation following years of inconsistent transfer success in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.

The club has enlisted the expertise of Sportsology Group, a renowned sports intelligence consultancy led by former Chelsea director Mike Forde, to lead the search for a new head of senior recruitment.

This new figure will oversee United’s senior scouts and play a pivotal role in reshaping the club’s recruitment strategy.

Additionally, United are seeking to appoint heads of emerging talent in key regional areas, aiming to strengthen their network and ensure a more effective approach to identifying top prospects.

These changes could mean the departure of long-serving scout Simon Wells, who began his United career under Ferguson and returned to the recruitment department during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure.

Wells has been a valued member of the team for several managers, but the restructuring is expected to bring a new way of working and could see further exits among the scouting staff.

Stephen Brown, United’s director of scouting, has already confirmed his departure, posting on LinkedIn that more exits are likely in the coming weeks.

He praised the dedication and professionalism of United’s scouting staff, describing them as “brilliantly collaborative individuals” with deep market knowledge and a commitment to excellence.

The overhaul comes at a time when United are still active in the transfer market, pursuing Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo to add to the recent signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves.

Mbeumo is keen on a move to Old Trafford, but the two clubs have yet to agree on a fee.

United’s leadership sees this restructuring as essential to modernising their scouting network, embracing advanced analytics and global expertise to improve recruitment outcomes.

As the club prepares for further changes, the hope is that a refreshed approach will finally deliver the transfer success United have struggled to achieve in recent years.