Manchester United might not have signed anyone in the summer transfer window, but the wheels are in motion for a big summer at Old Trafford.
Established internationals, social media superstars and promising wonderkids have all been linked with a move to United. However, it could be an appointment from last year which has the biggest impact in the summer transfer window.
The appointment of former Manchester City scout Romain Poirot late last summer was made in order to 'identify world-class and emerging talent' in France.
His arrival might not have been announced with the same rigmarole of Alexis Sanchez, but this is a figure who Ed Woodward will be hoping stays along for much longer than the Chilean forward.
Almost one year on from Poirot's arrival at United and we are truly beginning to see his impact on the club.
Throughout the summer Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have been linked with the likes of Adrien Rabiot and Tanguy Ndombele, two superb players in the French top-flight, but two players who a specialist scout doesn't need to specifically spot.
Indeed, the prospect of replacing Ander Herrera might be a useful tool in tempting either midfielder to Old Trafford, but Poirot's role goes further than just picking out first-team stars.
Poirot's appointment is perhaps explanation as to why the likes of teenage duo Exauce Mpembele Boula and Hannibal Mejbri have recently been linked with a move to United. The French scout joined United at a time where the club has been expanding it's own scouting pool in order to ensure they are fully up-to-date with emerging talent. Indeed, the club's scouting network across Europe, South America and Asia has trebled in size in recent years as part of a behind-the-scenes shake-up under Woodward.
Couple the new scouting approach with the fact United are looking to restructure their Academy set-up and Poirot's role will just be as crucial in recruiting the brightest young talent in European football.
Yet, despite being brought to the club under Jose Mourinho's tenure, he is sure to be a popular choice with Solskjaer too. Prior to his appointment last year MEN Sport reported how Poirot had already started looking for players with 'United DNA'. It's almost as if the Norwegian recommended him for the role himself.
A United source previously told MEN Sport their scouting overhaul was "not necessarily about bringing in more and more young players, but making sure that the correct due diligence is carried out before signings are made."
It might be a while before Poirot's impact is truly felt on the United first-team, but the signs are certainly promising.
