Manchester United's search for an informed Director of football received a boast today as several Italian media outlets report that Juventus sporting director Fabio Paratici will join the English club next summer.
Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli fielded several questions on Monday morning after reports emerged that Paratici is set to leave the club. The news came after Juventus CEO and general manager Beppe Marotta announced his surprise departure from the club. Agnelli did reveal a new board of directors but claimed the club will not lose Paratici at the end of the season.
However, according to Corriere della Sera, Paratici could leave the Italian champions "at the end of the year, or even earlier." Manchester United lead the way as they look to address significant failings within the clubs hierarchy.
United's recent transfer window saw the shock departure of head scout Javier Ribalta while the club fell outside the top six spenders. The Independent reported last August that the disappointing window saw the club begin to search for a director of football, with Paratici the preferred option.
The relationship between Mourinho and vice-chairman Ed Woodward has been heavily scrutinized in recent weeks with the United boss openly voicing his displeasure at the lack of signings last summer. Mourinho was asked about the relationship today during his press conference but refused to answer when asked when he had last spoken to Woodward.
That is a private matter, I am not asking you. It is a private matter, I am not going to answer to you.
On the field, Man United take on Valencia tomorrow in the Champions League as they look to respond to last Saturday's defeat to West Ham.