Manchester United are to copy Liverpool's approach to signing players by forming a three-man transfer committee.
But the Old Trafford transfer triumvirate will be a trio of ex-players, with Darren Fletcher and Rio Ferdinand among the former stars who could be tasked with finding the United players of tomorrow.
United have failed spectacularly in their recruitment policy in the last few years, signing big names who have failed to impress - leaving the club with a huge wage bill for players like Alexis Sanchez and Paul Pogba.
Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with help from Academy chief Nicky Butt, will instead now focus on attracting young players who play 'The United Way'.
Despite the big stars on their books, United failed to qualify for next season's Champions League - while fierce rivals Liverpool are in the Champions League final and pushed Manchester City all the way in the title race.
Liverpool use a three-man transfer committee to decide on the right targets, with boss Jurgen Klopp consulting sporting director Michael Edwards, head of scouting and recruitment Dave Fallows and goalkeeping coach John Achteberg.
And now United want to copy that approach in a bid to emulate the Reds' success - but with ex-players, reports The Sun .
The report says Fletcher is expected to head up the trio, while Ferdinand has also been approached to play a role.
Butt will oversee changes at the club's academy which could see another former midfielder, Quinton Fortune, take up a coaching role after United parted company with reserve-team boss Ricky Sbragia.
The thinking is clearly that these players understand what it takes to play for United, and will recognise the same qualities in young players.
One such player is £15m Swansea winger Daniel James.
James' father tragically passed away days before his son was due to complete a dream move to United.
The club will give James' family time and space to deal with the bereavement after his dad died suddenly aged 60.
However, he is expected to join later later this summer.
