Mike Phelan advised Manchester United to sign Jude Bellingham before the teenager was snapped up by Borussia Dortmund.
The midfielder burst onto the scene with Birmingham City, establishing himself in the first team at just 16.
His performances attracted plenty of admiring glances and United made moves to sign Bellingham.
Eventually though he opted for a switch to Germany, where the likes of Jadon Sancho had flourished due to regular game time.
Bellingham has been able to make his mark with the Bundesliga outfit, putting in stellar performances on the Champions League stage.
Had the Red Devils acted earlier they may well have won the race for his signature though.
Phelan suggested that United purse Bellingham after watching during a game between Birmingham took on West Bromwich Albion, reports the Athletic.
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Dortmund were able to offer the teenager the guarantee of first team football - something the Red Devils couldn't match and was crucial in his decision.
United made such efforts to sign Bellingham that they even asked Sir Alex Ferguson to feature during a tour of Carrington.
Now, 18 months after missing out on the Dortmund star, the club are in desperate need of reinforcements in the middle of the park.
Bellingham is among those being linked with a move to Old Trafford as is compatriot Declan Rice.
Dortmund would now be able to command a mammoth fee were they to cash in on the former Birmingham man, but their immediate priority will be keeping Erling Haaland.
Phelan's keen eye continues to be of use at United and recruitment is part of his remit.
Ralf Rangnick continues to use his expertise with the assistant previously working under Ferguson and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Phelan has stated that he very much takes an old school approach to scouting, choosing to veer away from the technology approach that is popular nowadays.
He said: "Stats can give you evidence. I prefer to see it. I’m still pen and paper. I’m not on a laptop, press a button and it all comes up to you. I can get somebody to do it."
Bellingham, who continues to be linked with a return to England, did last month reaffirm his commitment to the German side.
"I've never been part of a team that suits me so well,” he said in the 'JB22 - Dortmund's high flyer', documentary via Bulinews.
"It feels so good. There is no better club in the world when it comes to bringing out young players and developing them for the next level.
"I want to develop here and give something back by winning titles and games. Dortmund is the perfect place to learn your craft and learn about the game."
