United have been in decline since Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, which came in the immediate aftermath of the club’s latest top-flight trophy. The 81-year-old, who is now a director at the club, could now have a significant say on how Ratcliffe will overhaul the stricken English giants.

Candidate Freedman was previously a neighbour of Ferguson’s before taking his job at Palace, where he had previously been a successful player and briefly managed the club. The former Scotland striker impressed Ferguson during a chat at Old Trafford after Palace defeated United in the League Cup in 2011.

However, Ratcliffe will take time to select a new sporting director, with the legendary former defender Maldini on his list. Englishman Congerton, currently at Atalanta, has had success at Sunderland, Celtic and Leicester.